If the child is younger, you, as the caring and concerned adult, can offer to join the child in a daily exercise routine. Not only will there be the benefit of physical activity, but the time together will provide a golden opportunity to talk and explore feelings. Often those who are depressed withdraw from family and friends. Do whatever you can to encourage a depressed child to maintain contacts with others. Friendship not only fills lonely hours but prevents a depressed child from feeling completely alone and different.
Friendship generates healthy feelings of being loved and accepted.
Additionally, friendships offer crucial support when a person is in an emotional crisis. Suggest they invite companions to the house on a weekend or bring a friend home after school. Recommend ways of releasing feelings. This is a safe way to permit feelings of anger to surface. Anger is a very important part of depression and unless these feelings are released in some way, it is difficult to overcome depression.