How can I help

[IMJ484]

Ok so my good friend almost boyfriend Jeremy suffers with anxiety and depression, his anxiety is so bad that it causes extreme stomach pains
He says that he can be so happy and then everything turns to dark
He feels very pessimistic and feels helpless
He has had these issues ever since he can remember
He claims being around me and holding me gives him an uplift and at times I'm the only thing that can make him feel good and happy
How can I help him?

[aaronwebvizards]

I can advise you to seek help through physiological therapist, who can check the reason for his depression or past history. I would recommend you to stay by his side, to boast him to overcome this problem. On the otherhand speak to him, try to understand what is the reason behind his depression, so that you can also console him apart from the counselor.
  

[j17c27]

I have had anxiety for as long as I can remember and have suffered depression- so I'm just going to say what my boyfriend does that helps me through the tough times.

Really I think the number one thing is listening. Really listening to what I have to say, not matter how neurotic or depressing it is- I really love how my boyfriend listens.  Sometimes there's just not a lot you can say, but listening and doing small things like holding his hand while he talks or rubbing his shoulder or putting a hand on him- it shows you care.

DONT say "its going to be ok". WHenever my boyfriend or a friend says this to me I want to just slap them. When you are anxious, nothing seems to be ok and so saying "its going to be ok" sort of degrades sort the anxious person's thoughts and all it does is show you do not understand them, which will make them feel worse.

When he is depressed, show him love and strength.  Hold his hand extra tight, give him an extra tight hug, just show that you really care for him. Seeing you are cared for would increase anyone's happiness.

Maybe, when he is anxious and having stomach pains, make him chamomile peppermint tea. Chamomile reduces anxiety, and peppermint reduces nausea/eases the stomach.  The 2 mixed is the perfect combination! (I get bad stomach issues when I'm anxious and this tends to help me) Doing this will also show how much you care and would be really sweet.

Maybe when he is sad, instead of sulking, try and get him to do things like say "lets see a movie" or "lets go out in town"...it may not be what he wants right then and there but it will probably get his mind off things and going out and doing fun things with you will make him realize how you can turn his depression into happiness.

Just some ideas- good luck!