A Assess for risk of suicide or harm.
If you or an the individual are is expressing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention in order to prevent further harm to oneself. Address the situation accordingly in order to protect yourself or the individual from causing permanent harm.
L Listen nonjudgmentally.
Allow time for you and others to express their thoughts and feelings toward the present moment. This may require for you to be less talkative in order to allow space for your peer to express her true emotions. Try not to express your own opinions on the matter. Be a shoulder to lean on.
G Give reassurance and information.
Provide the individual with helpful information that enables them to look in the direction of light in their life rather than darkness. Never blame the individual for the emotions they are experiencing. Choose to share resources with her in order to pursue a healthy lifestyle.
E Encourage appropriate professional help.
Approach the individual with resources in the professional field of mental health. Seek out counselors and psychologists who are trained in treating such symptoms. This provides a stable outlet for an individual in which they are capable of experiencing growth.
E Encourage self-help and other support strategies.
By acknowledging the plentiful resources that exist in the world, it helps an individual select which strategies truly work for herself. There are many resources including self-help books, lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and even support from one’s community.
Components to helping an individual with depression provided by Jamie Mondics.1
Depression among college students 