What NOT To Do:
These are things that have been said to me over the years that have not helped:
"Your face is so long you're going to trip over it"
"If you don't adjust your attitude I'm going to adjust it for you" (threatening to hit me)
"Maybe its just one of your moods"
"Well if you just tell me whats wrong, then I can help you"- that was yelled at me by my bf after I said numerous times I didn't now what was wrong with me
What To Do:
These things have helped:
"If you ever want to talk, or if you need someone to listen, I'm here"
"You can trust me. Anything you say is just between you and me unless you tell someone"
"You aren't all alone"
"I'm only a phone call or IM away if you need me"
When I was suicidal, someone told me to just wait a day before I killed myself. Your perspective can change so much from one day to the next. If its still the same, and you still want to die, you just need to wait another day.
Whenever I was especially sad, I just wanted to be held by my boyfriend. I think that might be the case with many females, not sure about males though. A hug can go a long way!
Just try to be there for the person, and be supportive. Don't force them into things they don't want to do.
If you notice that your child is excessively sad, try to get them to talk, but don't force it. Perhaps making an appointment with a school counsellor or a therapist would help. Not everyone is clinically depressed, some just need a person to talk to.
If you suspect the person is suicidal, get help ASAP!!! DO NOT leave them alone! Call 1-800-SUICIDE, a hospital or 911.
For more about what to do visit: Innerself.com
To help a friend with depression, visit:
Mental Health InfoSource.