Hi A Hobbit,

Let's begin with what you do know. You do know that keeping your feelings to yourself isn't helping, correct? If professional help is not an option, have you ever heard of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)? It's the largest mental health advocacy organization in the United States. NAMI has free support groups seemingly everywhere. You'll be able to talk to other people who have depression in a safe, supportive environment. You can check them out online at NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness | NAMI: The National Alliance on Mental Illness

I think you should look into NAMI before talking to your friend's son because you've probably been struggling with depression for two or three decades.

If NAMI is not an option then I'd say you should talk to the son, but I'd go real slow instead of pouring out all of your feelings at once.

Keep us posted.