Depression

[Rimsha Faisal]

Dear Mr.Swag

My best friend has been a little off for the past few weeks. She has been really sad lately and has shown lack of interest in all activities. Her grades are dropping very fast and she has shown irritability and anger. She used to be such a happy and bright person but she now is withdrawing from her family and friends(including me). She doesn't try to do anything anymore and shows lack of energy(she used to be very active). I've caught her crying a few times and when I ask her what's wrong she gets angry and walks away.I want to help her but don't know how to approach her in the right way that won't set her off. Can you help me?

Sincerely
Friend

[Cieara Livingston]

Dear Friend,

If your friend has been feeling depressed over that past few weeks i would try and get her to talk to someone like the Kids Help Phone or even you, let her know that she's not alone and there is always someone to talk to when she needs to. Here's the Kids Help Phone phone number: 1-800-668-6868. She is probably going to need someone to talk to  about it, someone she can let out her feelings to, the emotions that she has bottled up inside that she feels like she can't let out in front of people. Also if she wants to talk to someone then she will talk to them on her own she probably wants her space but let her know that once she is ready to talk make sure she knows that you are there for her and will always be there for her. 

Signed,

Mr.Swag  

[Summer Bradshaw]

Dear Friend,

It seems she has depression, or maybe something is going on. Try to approach any questions smoothly, to try and keep her calm. When she is mad, just tell her it's okay, and everything is just going to be fine. Try not to let her be alone, it will only make matters worse. I would recommend telling they're parent or guardian so they can help as well. Depression is not fun, and it's good to keep trying, to help her.

Sincerely,
Mr. Swag

[duaa Anjum]

Dear Friend,

Your friend is possibly going through a depressive phase. She needs support from you and people around her. Maybe she's behaving this way because of family problems and that's why she is disconnected from them. It is extremely important for her to get help at this point of time. You would prove to be a true friend if you can gently encourage her to seek help from trained professionals. Tell her that she is not the only one out there with such problems, and remind her that every problem has a solution. Let her be aware of the fact that there are counsellors, nurses, doctors etc, who can help rectify her problem.  What I think you should also do is inform your teacher about her condition because such people can resort to wrong things like drugs and crime. Your friend is in a vulnerable situation and it is your job as a friend to protect her and guide her to get help through her tough times. 

Signed,

Mr.Swag