Q: Q. My 23 years old friend seems to be getting into depression these days. He is going through a rough patch and is feeling really alone due to deaths of some of his near and dear ones. He admits he would go mad. He is unable to bear the grief and pain. How can we help him get out of this situation?

A:Looking at the description he definitely has substantial symptoms of clinical depression possible worsened/precipitated by the losses in the family and complicated by the grief that he is going through. Often, individuals who experience such problems are going through lot of guilt and would benefit from any opportunity and support to express their feelings especially as related to their losses. I strongly encourage that your friend seek active help, preferably with a psychiatrist or psychologist as soon as possible for further assessment and help.