Hi Lawrence,
Welcome!
There are fact sheets on depression right here on this site 🙂 Look under The facts on the blue menu bar, and under Supporting someone. Get support has info your girlfriend may find personally helpful.
I am a girlfriend with anxiety (I'm 23), and I find it really nice when my boyfriend just lays down and cuddles me. Feeling loved is just the most consoling thing for me personally. My anxiety has been long-term (10 years) and I've learned to deal with it better than in the past. With depression, sufferers often try to close off from others and alienate themselves. Alienation can be a response to feeling empty and dejected, as well as a way of ensuring loved ones don't have to "deal" with their worst mood states. Allowing your girlfriend a little space at times is good, but sometimes she will need your emotional support even when she doesn't realise it. Messaging her to say you are coming over with a movie and food, and having a laidback night together would be appreciated.
If she talks about suicide or you know she has suicidal tendencies (and she doesn't want others to know), do not hesitate to inform one of her family members. You could encourage or organise on her behalf for some professional help too. If her family are wanting to do this, then by all means let them organise it. A nudge in a safe direction may be needed, even if she appears annoyed by the intervening. She will thank you later on.
If you don't mind me asking, how long have you two been in a relationship for? And how old are you?
I hope you continue to use this forum!
Best wishes,
SM
