A physician can prescribe medications to help relieve the symptoms of depression. For many people, a combination of psychological therapy and medication is beneficial. Talking about depression only makes it worse. By showing friendship and concern and giving uncritical support, you can encourage your friend to talk to his or her parents or another trusted adult, like a teacher or coach, about getting treatment. People who talk about suicide don't commit suicide.
Some people even tell a friend about a plan to kill themselves before they actually do.
Immediately make a responsible adult aware of what your friend has said. A parent, a teacher, a school nurse or counselor can all help. Telling an adult that a friend might be depressed is betraying a trust. If someone wants help, he or she will get it. Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person's ability or wish to get help.