Readers Post 1

Hi. I hope you can help me because I’m so worried about my friend. She has been really quiet lately, and has been sitting by herself at lunch time instead of with our group. She cries all the time and she is always having days off school because she can’t get out of bed. I don’t know what to say to her. Please help me.

Concerned Mate

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Dear Concerned Mate,

It's not always easy to help someone who may be experiencing depression. It can be hard to know what to say or do not wanting to make her uneasy. Here are some helpful tips. Talk to her about how she’s feeling and listen to what she has to say - sometimes, when a person wants to talk, they're not always seeking advice, but just need to talk about their problems and issues. Use open-ended questions such as "What did you do...?" which require more than a 'yes' or 'no' answer. This is a good way to begin a conversation. However if your friend gets angry stay calm because she may be frustrated with herself be firm, fair and consistent and don’t lose control. Often, just spending time with the person lets them know someone cares and understands them. Encourage the person to seek professional help from their family doctor or a mental health worker. Take care of yourself. Supporting someone with depression can be demanding. Family and friends should take 'time out' to look after themselves.

Take care, Rachael from MHCA