Instead, listen and reassure the individual that depression and suicidal tendencies can be treated. Depressive disorders respond readily to treatments such as psychotherapy or appropriate medication. Antidepressants can act within two to three weeks and often are used in addition to psychotherapy. Nearly 90 percent of all depressed people respond to these treatments. You can find help by contacting your local chapter of the American Psychiatric Association, which can suggest a psychiatrist.
Psychiatrists are physicians who have special training in emotional and mental health.
Bibliography General Information Anderson, Luleen S. Sunday Came Early This Week. Blumenthal, Susan and Kupfer, Davis. Suicide Across the Life Cycle. My Son, My Son. The Bolton Press, 1983.