Thanks Fayerody

I will listen more, maybe reflect back what I hear them saying for them to know I have listened to them. I will not say things like "just try to cheer up" because I've been depressed before and it isn't something you can just turn on and off.

Thanks Jefftele

I tell them I care. A friend told me caring is an expression of love. I also understand if they seem distant.

Thanks Bronee

I think you have a very good idea there. I read somewhere else that unexpected signs of care help.

Thanks Wants2Fly

Sometimes when my friend tells me how live isn't worth living I tell her that it's the depression talking. Is that a good thing to say? I don't want to invalidate her feelings. Should I say instead that I agree that life feels like it isn't worth living sometimes. I usually counter that with, but depression doesn't last forever and you *will* feel better again. But then the person usually doesn't believe me.

Thanks sabau

I read somewhere that it's not good to say you understand when you don't, so I never say I understand when I don't. For example, I've had depression before, but it was the atypical variety. I was still able to feel moments of joy now and again when something good happened. My friend is experiencing a long severe depression without the ability to feel joy. I told her I didn't understand what that felt like and then gave her some virtual hugs.

Thanks for all your advice everyone. I'm also going to research this on google too, search for ways to help a friend with depression.