Gretchen Lawson: It is really helpful, most beneficial, to talk to someone who is trained in depression, someone who knows the signs and the symptoms. Someone that can work with you to come up with a plan, someone that can help you cope with your urgent feelings so that you can take the time to respond well to those feelings instead of feeling the need to react immediately to those feelings.

For more answers to your questions on suicide, watch these videos:

Suicide – How come some days are good but some are awful?

Suicide – How do I know if someone I love is suicidal?

Suicide – How do I stop my strong, suicidal urge?

Suicide – I don’t have anyone to talk to about this.

Suicide – I want to commit suicide

Suicide – What are some early signs of suicidal thoughts?

Suicide – Why do I feel suicidal?

Are you feeling depressed? Need someone to talk to? TheHopeLine offers free confidential live chat with a HopeCoach to help you with what is going on in your life. We are here to listen and support you without judgment. 

If you or a friend need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, for free confidential, 24/7 help. Head here for a list of crisis centers around the world. For additional help, please visit the suicide prevention resource page.