Depression

So, what can you do to help? A first step is to give caring attention to the person who feels depressed, in the form of listening. Let her share her feelings and thoughts with you. You don't have to say much, just be there and take a genuine interest in what she says. By giving caring attention, you help ease the mental and emotional pain.

If the person is unwilling to open up you should encourage her to seek professional help. I strongly recommend talk therapy. We must understand that many times it's easier to open up to a complete stranger than to someone who's close to us.

It's important to understand that it's perfectly normal to be depressed and that a depression can be healed. The healing process has a focus on feelings and thoughts and takes a close look at painful experiences from the past.

Remember that it's painful and unpleasant to live with depressive feelings and thoughts. So, do your very best to be gentle and understanding of your friend's situation. At the same time, do encourage her to start in therapy. By letting her choose the form of therapy, the therapy is more likely to be successful.

Deep relaxation effectively dissolves physical and mental stress. This soothing form of therapy is especially effective on light depression. You can download Learning To Relax where I guide the listener into a deep state of relaxation. No previous experience needed. Practice makes perfect...

Best of luck!