CWD Daily
Tips for Coping with Depression
1-800-273-8255.
Get help.
If you think your friend is considering suicide, urge them to call their therapist while you’re with them or ask your friend if you can call for them.
They can also text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Not in the United States? The International Association for Suicide Prevention can link you to hot-lines and other resources in your country: iasp.info/wspd2021/resources/
You can also take your friend to an emergency room. If possible, stay with your friend until they no longer feel suicidal. Make sure they can’t access any weapons or drugs.
If you’re concerned about your friend, you might worry that mentioning it to them could encourage suicidal thoughts. But it’s generally helpful to talk about it.
healthline.com had a great article on helping a depressed friend:
healthline.com/health/how-to-help-a-depressed-friend#recognize-the-forms
Things to do:
Listen to them. Help them find support. Support them in continuing therapy. Take care of yourself. Learn about depression on your own. Offer to help with everyday tasks. Extend loose invitations. Be patient. Stay in touch. Know the different forms depression can take.
Things not to do:
Don't take things personally. Don't try to fix them. Don't give advice. Don't minimize or compare their experience. Don't take a stance on medication.
If you think your friend is considering suicide, urge them to call their therapist while you’re with them or ask your friend if you can call for them.
Some signs of suicidal thoughts:
Frequent mood swings or personality changes. Talking about death or dying. Purchasing a weapon. Increased substance use. Risky or dangerous behavior. Getting rid of belongings or giving away treasured possessions. Talking about feeling trapped or wanting a way out. Pushing people away or saying they want to be alone. Saying goodbye with more feeling than usual.
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