Here is a list of things that may help when you have someone close to you being a friend, close member of family that may be feeling depressed..
. Spending time with them, and listening to what they are feeling, and having them know you are there
as a supportive loved one, and not there to judge...
Suggest to them to seek professional help or medical advice, and offer to come along with them..
Let them know that they aint along and that you are a phone call or sms , or email away..
Helping your them understand that their is information out there, and phone numbers to call...
As you are the supportive person, make sure that he/she is looking after themselves, eating properly, exercising, or just suggest a day out, doesnt have to cost heaps of money,...
Having others to help you, and the one that is feeling depressed can help heaps, and helps the person that is feeling this way knowing they aint alone...
Remember as the supportive person you are there as a listener, and that the person you are supporting may not want to talk, or have you give them all the answers, as a friend or relatives we dont have all the answers, or know it all, and so it is so important to have them seen by a professional if they are depressed longer then 2 weeks...
What they don't want you to do is
Avoid them.
tell them to snap out of it.
tell them to hurry up and get over it,..
that its all in their head, and not to worry about how they are feeling..
That they are imagining it all...
Pressure them to drink and party hard is not a good idea, and wont solve the depressed situation..
Below is some places that you can suggest for them to call...
Lifeline- 13 11 14 is a 24 hour counselling service, or email www.lifeline, org,au
Kids Help line 1800 55 1800,- Kids help line is a national 24- hour counselling service for children and young people up to the age 18.. There is also a online chat- based help service on their website. www.kidshelp.com.au
Hope this has helped, and that being a friend is the most important part of the person that is feeling down...
xx cazza
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