For many people a combination of psychological therapy and medication is beneficial. Talking about depression only makes it worse. By showing your concern and giving nonjudgemental support, you can encourage your friend to talk to a parent or another trusted adult, like a dean, faculty member, or coach, about getting treatment. If your friend is reluctant to ask for help, you can talk to Psychological Services staff or a dean - that's what a real friend would do. Depressed people who talk about suicide don't actually try to commit suicide.
Some people even tell another person about a plan to kill themselves before they actually try.
Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person's wish or ability to get help. It is an act of loyalty to your friend to share your concerns with a counselor, or a dean, or a Psychological Services staff person. The first step toward defeating depression is to define it. Find Someone who can Help Don't assume someone else is taking care of the problem. Negative thinking, inappropriate behavior, or physical changes need to be reversed as quickly as possible.