Talking about depression only makes it worse. Fact Talking through feelings may help a friend recognize the need for professional help. 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. Myth People who talk about suicide don't commit suicide. Fact Many people who commit suicide have given warnings to friends and family.
Some people even tell a friend about a plan to kill themselves before they actually do.
Immediately make a university representative aware of what your friend has said. Myth Telling someone that a friend might be depressed is betraying a trust. If someone wants help, he or she will get it. Fact Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person's ability or wish to get help. And many people may not understand the seriousness of depression or of thoughts of death or suicide.