Talking to someone with depression

[Typhlosion]

Heya! So I'm dating a girl (!!!) and she told me that she's depressive at times and already had suicidal thoughts. What should/shouldn't I do/say when I notice/she mentions that she's not having a good day? Distracting + later being positive and joking around and being nice worked today, but I'd love to know more on what I can do.

What would you do or would like to hear?

[Horatio Nelson]

Honestly, the best thing you can do is to always listen to what she has to say, and just be there for her. Sometimes it's not always about what you should say, but rather what you shouldn't say.

Depression is hard, and I know where you're coming from. I hope it all works out and goes well for you two, Alex. :)

[WanderingHeart]

Exactly what user above said. Just listen to her and be there for her and make sure she knows how much she's loved and cared about. Help her when she needs it and do your best to understand her.

Best of luck to you, your girlfriend, and your relationship!

[Mil1dreded]

Can't really say more than these two be there for her if she ever seems off or moody it's not her fault so don't lay into her for it I was depressed for a while and a person who was my best friend ditched me and I felt awful for months that's the kinda impact it has so just be there and listen to her she may even stop having depression if she's happy enough good luck :)

[Vermilion]

I have depression, as long as your there for and listen you can't do anything more. So times I like people asking about it other times I hate it. So be careful if you bring it up.

[Abhorrence]

I, personally, do not like people to mention it to me unless I talk about it directly. I'm not offended easily at all either, so no jokes about things relating to it bother me. But, it does obviously range from person to person.

If she's having a bad time then the only thing you can do is be there for her, there is no cure for it and it's important to remember that your presence may not always fix everything. Don't feel like a failure as a friend/etc just because you can't cheer them up. It's also important not to get angry if they continue to be upset despite your best efforts. You probably know this but it's best to mention it anyway. :P

[Abbeys]

When I talk about my depression I use the classic break up line,"it's not you it's me" everything else stems from there.
When I'm depressed, I don't mean a bit fed up I mean so depressed everything is an effort.

I eat(comfort eat) watch tv,( an anaesthetic) and wait for it to pass.

I sometimes describe my depression as having a metal strap around my brain.
I can't think,I don't want to think,I just want to be left alone.

When I'm well,I exercise,I'm fun to be with,(so I'm told)and the best friend anyone could have,(also so I'm told).:D

You sound like a caring person and exactly the sort of person a sufferer of depression needs.

HTH

Abbey

[Professional Russian]

The best thing you can do is just be there for them and always be supportive. Usually when I'm depressed I try to push people away. You may or may not have to deal with that. If you do just prove how much you care and they should be fine you.