Dear BJ,

I think my friend might be depressed but I’m not sure. He cries a lot and acts tired all the time. Should I be worried about it, or is he just going through drama?

- Worried

Dear Worried,

Being sad is a normal response to tough times, but lingering sadness or lethargy that does not go away can sometimes be signs of depression.

Depression is a serious situation, and you can watch your friend for some of these symptoms:

• Changes in sleep pattern (too much or too little)
• A loss of desire for activities he used to love
• A change in eating habits (too much or too little)
• Thoughts about harming himself or someone else
• Feeling hopeless

This is not an all-inclusive list, but it’s a good place to begin. Whether or not your friend is clinically depressed, it sounds like he needs someone to be there for him right now.

Spend time with your friend. Ask about what’s going on in his heart. Listen. And find help.

You and your friend do not need to go at this alone. Seek out an adult – a physician, a counselor, or a pastor – to help your friend get through this time.

And don’t underestimate what you can do as a friend. I know he appreciates having someone who cares enough to notice what he’s feeling.

BJ

Have a question? Want to know more about seeking help for depression? E-mail BJ at authorbjhamrick@gmail.com