Internet Friend and Depression

[MrShowerHead]

2 months ago, a guy send me a friend request on Xfire. I didn't know who he was, but accepted it. Now, we have chatted almost everyday for that 2 months. I really like our chats.

While ago,I found out that he was suffering from depression. He had few suicidal attemps behind him and he used to cut himself. I really couldn't say anything to help him and that left me feel kinda stupid. I really wished I could have do something to help him.

Yesterday, he told me he cut himself again and got sent home from work. Again, I was speechless. I didn't know what to say. And just 1 hour ago, he told me he felt like killing himself. Only thing I've been able to say is "If you need someone to talk to, I'm here" but that feels like I'm lying, since I don't know what to say. I'm actually scared to say anything, since it could just make things worse.

The question: How can I help him? What should I say? Or would it be better to say nothing?

 

[icame]

I've talked to many people like that here on the interwebs. Generally the thing is try to do is try to make them feel better about the current situation or w/e that has them feeling sad, and then encourage them to find treatment.

I've also found that when someone is feeling really bad about something, not just in general, taking there mind off it is the best solution. Aka talk about anything that isn't that.

 

[ultrachicken]

Saying nothing gives him the sense that you don't give a shit. I recommend just playing some games online with him, if you can. Try to distract him.

 

[shreedder]

talk to him, but also call a suicide support line. These people may be able to help your friend more than you can.

The key thing to do is to not wait. You need to act on a claim like that.

 

[Zaverexus]

You should probably make sure that this guy isn't actually some creep looking to use sympathy to pull you in or anything. I would assume after this time you would know at least a bit about him, but you can never be too careful