Being an empathic makes it very tough on a person that has dealt with depression in their own lives. I tend to pick up when people have sadness in their eyes. They don’t even have to have a frown. It’s like I can sense that they’re unhappy.

The old me would’ve tried to get in there to root out the issue and continue to try to fix anything that was wrong. I would probably put my nose in where it doesn’t belong. Or try to help in a situation that I am completely unfamiliar with.

Today I am more apt to ask a friend, “How’s life treating you today?” It’s a question I ask a lot in greetings and is not unusual. What it does do is open a door, but only if a friend wants it too. If the answer is a solemn okay, I can return with, “If you need me you know where I am.”

My hardest is young children when they are sad. Hugs and cuddles can usually eliminate the sadness. They often don’t have the words to explain how they are feeling but almost all will respond yes when asked, “Do you want to be happy?” That’s when I can suggest something fun to do that they like. Most often, like adults, they just need something to distract them from dwelling on their sadness and to know someone cares.

My best advice? Be there if a friend or family needs you. Find a way to always assure them you are there for them if they need to talk it out. Be nonjudgmental and unconditional as possible. Trust and respect are foremost. You can’t fix anyone. You can be a good friend.

May I be safe. May I be healthy. May I be happy. May I live with ease.