AboutNeil Expertise I am a male high school student who has gone through depression. You can trust me. Feel free to express yourself. Do not hold back.
*Note: Depressed adults should seek more professional advice.
Experience I am a 17 year old male. I have gone through depression. Fortunately, I have overcome the pain and suffering and realized the beauty of life.
Education/Credentials I am currently in 12th grade in high school.
Expert: Neil Date: 5/30/2008 Subject: helping a friend
Question i have a friend who has problems talking about her feelings and discussing them.... she hassome commitment issues and some trust issues, i dont kno exactly whats bothering her because she doesnt like to discus her problems, we are dateing and i think talking about these problems will strengthen it.... if u have any advice on how i could talk with her about these problems or ways in which i can get her to open up (both mind and heart) it would be mostly appreciated.
Answer Hey Dugald,
Glad to see you show some care about her. Other than being there for her and encouraging her to make the right decisions, there's not much more you can do. And since depression is considered a contagious mental disease and she is a female (meaning she will be probably be more expressive of her feelings and situation if she sees that you are there for her), I highly recommend you don't get too involved or depression might hit you as well.
Pretty much, she needs to get medical attention. But if she is persistent on not getting it, don't be stubborn or you will lose her as a friend and she needs you. Also, since she seems so reserved, she probably won't be willing to tell her parents. Her alternative would have to be telling friends she trusts so they can be there for her.
Here are some little tips to help though:
-Exercise. This gives powerful, immediate relief from depression. Arguably (and in my opinion), the best cure to depression. Since depression usually happens at night, it would be smart to exercise at night. Also, you could exercise with her.
-Hang on out outside more. Join a club, sport, or activity.
-Its better for her to have more distant friends than a few close ones.
-Sometimes sad music induces depression. Time for a change of music?
-See this video: http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-be-happy-2 (it might be some good in the long run)
