Seeking advice to help a good friend

[BOC64]

Hi

I have a really good friend in his early 30s who I believe has depression based upon a number of things he tells me and that I observe. I have suggested he speak to someone however he continues to tell me he is fine and does not need to.

Is there more that I could be doing as I do not want to become a pseudo psychologist for him?

Thanks

J

[SilvaLady]

Hello BOC64,

First off I would like to say a big thank you to you in behalf your friend, if you don't mind that is. I am suffering from depression/anxiety myself for about 4 years. Initially I was in denial, putting it down to stress with work and family. Work colleagues urged me to seek help, but I didn't want to do it. I found it embarrassing to admit that I had a problem. I didn't want to admit that, always putting it down to stress. About two years ago I finally started to look for help, and only recently I have joined BB for help and support. Your friend may feel the same, feeling embarrassed I mean.

Just be there and let him know that you are there for him. Also it may be a good idea, if you could do some research about depression/ anxiety. Let him know that you are to listen when he is ready to talk.

I hope this helps.

SilvaLady

[BOC64]

Thanks SilvaLady

As a good friend he is aware of the issues I have with PTSD, Chronic Pain and Depression. He knows that I am here to listen and help as much as I can.

I think your advice is very helpfull and yes I can only do what I can.

Thanks JC

[quirkywords]

BOC64 welcome to the forum.

Silva has already offered support and helpful suggestion.

One thing I have found from both helping and being helped is that it is nice if you talk to the person about a shared interest or something they like so it is not only about asking them to get help.

I think you are wonderful that you want to help when you yourself have issues.

Thanks again for sharing your story because by writing you will help others who are reading your post.

Quirky

[SilvaLady]

Hello J.

I was just wondering on how you are coping with things, and how is your friend doing?

I'll be here if you want to talk to someone. It is important to support each other, as each case is different and each person's journey in life is different, at the end of the day we are all human and I think we all can help each other in some ways.

SilvaLady