I’m tried that and find it gets out of control real fast so I still think if you gane their trust they don’t fear you and begin to open up to you and if you offer them a cup of coffee or glass of iced tea you have a better chance of helping them with their problems but it may take some time and you might have to meet a few more times to get them to feel that they can trust you as always let them know what they say stays in the place you are meeting them and you will not share what they say to anyone unless it’s something about hurting them or suicidal thoughts. I am not a doctor as I am just someone that suffers from depression and anxiety issues along with PTSD and I am a Vietnam Era Veteran and have spent a month in the suicidal ward at the Veterans Hospital. Depression is not just a word but a condition that many people have no clue on what it is and the more you study it the more complicated it is so just be very careful and listen to what is being said and don’t interrupt them with questions as they want answers. I hope this helps you.

I associate with no one because not even mu husband or kids understand. They just call me miserable. Every day it's up to me to tell mysel I will be okay.

@A MyDepressionTeam Member you are so right! I still get burned by that -- I have a Psychology degree and have had misunderstandings for sure. One of the challenges I have is getting people interested in learning more, I like your approach!

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A MyDepre...

Pretend you're an expert and they're a layman. Explain things that way. Still may not work, but it's easier I've found.

That would be very difficult question to ask. I might suggest taking your friend for maybe a cup of coffee and then just kind of work it into the conversation but take your time about it. Maybe then your friend would feel more comfortable sharing their story. You might have to do this for more than one time so be ready for that and as I have said take “Baby steps”and don’t rush it. Good Luck. Please let me know how this is working.