How to Help a Person Who is Depressed

@pjmurphy (2500)
United States
January 17, 2019 6:39am CST
I have a friend who is depressed and having trouble coping. She is very dear to me, and I would like to help but not sure what is the best thing to say or do. Any advice on what I could say or do to help?
14 people like this
15 responses
@Happy2BeMe (99390)
• Canada
17 Jan 19
It is so hard to help somebody going through depression. You could invite her out but she probably won't want to go. You could call but she may not want to talk. All you can really do is let her know that you are there for her. Maybe little encouraging notes and words of support.
4 people like this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
17 Jan 19
That's what I've been trying to do. Thanks
2 people like this
@Happy2BeMe (99390)
• Canada
17 Jan 19
@pjmurphy You are welcome.
1 person likes this
@Courage7 (19633)
• United States
17 Jan 19
I suggest having a little get together, maybe a meal, a cup of coffee, maybe a half day outing. People who are very down sometimes can really appreciate this type of activity and to be in the company of someone just to listen. Good for you for wanting to help your friend. I wish her the very best.
3 people like this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
17 Jan 19
Thanks for responding. That sounds like a wonderful idea.
1 person likes this
@Courage7 (19633)
• United States
17 Jan 19
@pjmurphy Welcome I hope something helps.
1 person likes this
@cintol (11261)
• United States
17 Jan 19
Tell her you have a good shoulder to lean on and ears that are great at listening and when she comes to you be there for her. Call and check on her often, never leave her out of your thoughts.
2 people like this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
17 Jan 19
Thanks, Cindy. She is never out of my thoughts, but I have decided that I need to take care of myself in order to respond to her better.
2 people like this
@cintol (11261)
• United States
18 Jan 19
@pjmurphy Good idea, good luck I hope it works out for you both.
1 person likes this
@paigea (35718)
• Canada
18 Jan 19
Just go for a walk. Listen if she talks. Talk about other things if she doesn't. Very hard, and I agree you must take care of you.
2 people like this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
18 Jan 19
I've let her know I'm available. She seems to be doing better right now.
2 people like this
@BloggerDi (3113)
• United States
30 Jan 19
It's great that you want to help your friend. You have a good balanced approach to the situation, knowing that you must not forget yourself when helping a needy person. I've read many great ideas in the comments! I hope your friend is less depressed now.
1 person likes this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
30 Jan 19
She is!! I
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@BloggerDi (3113)
• United States
30 Jan 19
@pjmurphy Great news!
1 person likes this
17 Jan 19
Sorry to hear that your friend is suffering that condition. Well maybe let her share her story that lead her depressed. Over and over to cope her up. I learned that from our psychology professor.
2 people like this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
17 Jan 19
Thanks. That sounds like good advice. I'll always be available to listen.
@GardenGerty (157649)
• United States
30 Jan 19
I think we all agree that you need to be available as a listening ear. If you can get her out to walk, the exercise helps depression. If there is a place to go enjoy some sunlight and nature that is a benefit as well. You are not the annoying type who would be judgemental of her depression and that is very good.
1 person likes this
@mayka123 (16583)
• India
19 Jan 19
May be you could distract her and divert her mind from what is troubling her. And with kind words with time we forget all our troubles.
1 person likes this
@noni1959 (9883)
• United States
19 Jan 19
The best thing you can say is, "I'm here for you."
1 person likes this
@just4him (306854)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
18 Jan 19
I'm sorry she's depressed. I don't know what to do in that situation.
1 person likes this
@just4him (306854)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
20 Jan 19
@pjmurphy Yes, it is.
1 person likes this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
19 Jan 19
It is sometimes difficult to know how to handle a situation like this.
1 person likes this
@responsiveme (22926)
• India
18 Jan 19
Exercise but in group activity. Long walks but these are the basics. Professional help if she is agreeable. good to know you are a good friend
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203451)
• Nashville, Tennessee
17 Jan 19
From my experience, the best thing you can offer is a nonjudgmental ear and shoulder.
1 person likes this
@Nevena83 (65280)
• Serbia
19 Jan 19
You can only help her by listening to her and not letting her often be alone.
1 person likes this
@yisuylm (116)
• Nanjing, China
17 Jan 19
what happened with your friend?
1 person likes this
@pjmurphy (2500)
• United States
17 Jan 19
Depression is not always based on what is happening. Life is just depressing for some.
@Sheali (7461)
• India
17 Jan 19
Try to do something with her, which she otherwise likes doing.. watching movies, gardening anything.. Maybe that will help
1 person likes this