How to counsel someone who is very depressed ?

Question

And the depressed person just has this overwhleming feeling of hopelessness and just want to choose death as the only solution

Answer 1

If they are that depressed, you need professional help. They need to be evaluated and probably put on medication. Be supportive. Don't ever tell them to "snap out of it" or "get over it". That will only make them feel even more like no one understands or cares what they're feeling. Try to get them out to go for a walk or other activity because exercise and sunlight release endorphines that help elevate their mood. Listen to them. Often people who are depressed feel isolated, like no one cares or understands. Sometimes just listening and telling them that you care will help. Mostly, you need to get the advice of a psychiatrist. It won't go away on it's own if it's truly depression and not just the blues.

Most medication prescribed for depression takes 4-6 weeks of regular use to take full affect. It has to build up in your body over time to reach the levels that make a difference. If they are already on medication and still feeling dispondent, you might consider taking them to a hospital for observation. My sister is bi-polar and even though she's regularly seen by her psychiatrist, her meds have to be adjusted every so often.

Most people being treated for depression see a psychiatrist for their meds and a psychologist/therapist for counseling. If they are getting therapy, perhaps you could contact that person for advice. They won't be able to discuss the case with you unless they have a release from the patient, but you can tell them your concerns and find out if you should take further steps to prevent a serious problem.

Kudos to you for caring and trying to help. Many people ignore the situation because they don't see mental health issues as a medical problem.

Answer 2

Suicide is very serious; the best thing you can do for your friend is to make sure he gets professional help.  In the mean time, be there to listen without judging, and don't hesitate to call the authorities if you think your friend is an immediate danger to himself.  Better to have your friend mad at you for a while than dead forever.

Answer 3

There are no absolutes. There are multiple way you could counsel this person. Try to understand where they are coming from and give advice where you can. However, if someone wants to kill them self or has feelings of hurting themselves or others you need to recommend therapy and depending on how serious take them to the hospital.  

Answer 4

Well first of all you should never think that death is the last choice, I someone feels depressed go out somewhere fun with friends and if you still feel bad eat lots of ice cream makes me feel better  

Answer 5

It is a very bad idea for a layman to counsel a suicidal person. It can be very dangerous. This must be left to a professional. The only thing you can do is to listen and show that you care about them. Try to convince them to see a prof., but if they have social issues it might take some time. Don't make them feel guilty for feeling the way they do.

The newer drugs usually kick in after 2-3 weeks but not always. I'd give it at least 5 as everyone is different.

Answer 6

try to just do the simple stuff . like look at sunsets, eat ice cream, listen to music.  or you can do the religious approach with bible verses and hope through Christ. or you can try the journal approach

fear of meeting people, try a club. or try the movies or have a small party at your house with ice cream and music. and try to invite goood trusting listening friends.



or the best idea i have. buy them a puppy. or if no money look in the local paper for someone giving away free puppies. they are mens best friend for a reason

Answer 7

The first thing you have to do, is not to bring up the question "why are you sad?". Instead, you try to make them do something that lightens the mood, maybe watch a comedy movie, take them out someplace, or just be there for them and show that you care.

Answer 8

You can be there for them but they have to want to help themselves before any progress can be made

Answer 9

Take them to a Doctor that can help.  Someone with credentials that knows what they're doing.

Answer 10

The more time you have to listen, the better. Takes more patience than most people have. If you can find an opening, suggest therapy. If they discuss choosing death, and are specific as to how they would go about it, that is serious, and you may need to require professional intervention. Good luck.

Answer 11

Try and give them hope cheer them up and you personally can spend time to keep them company.  That would prob mean alot to them.. cheer them up. Try to get them excited about anything at all.  Death is not a solution btw!! don't let them look at it is one; it a way of backing down.. If they can overcome such a depression they will likely develope a strong character that will serve them well for the rest of their lives!!

Also I suggest you get them professional help. Help is always there you just have to look for it!

Best of luck!

***Addition: Sounds a little cheesy but watching the Olympics can be inspiring.. movies.. books and helping others all have positive influences.  try Paulo Ceolho as an author perhaps ;)

Answer 12

firstly u need to just listen to them ask them y they think death is the only solution then try and turn things into positive try and find something or someone that needs them this person needs a perpose in life a reason to carry on u need to set them tasks and coals to work to involvement in something to keep them busy maybe voluntry work in a hospice or something life is a preciase thing not to be thrown away

very difficult to and something that will take time  good luck

Answer 13

i think u should first keep constant attention and on him/her and divert his/her attention from the topic and make him/her trust you and see to that you don't offend or make them more depressed .first convince them that death is not always the option when things go wrong and always you should face life and the challenges it brings. slowly try and make them confess what their problem is and never lose your temper and be patient but put your foot own where you should.i also think its best that you take him/her to a phycologist and i think professional help will also be useful.