1. Be clear in your mind that they need medication and therapy, and project this. Encourage them to continue both. Make it clear it's now new routine.

2. There should be Guide Dogs for Depressed. If depressed loved-one or client in your life doesn't have a companion pet, give them a well-trained, easy-to-manage, older one. This is particularly important if they live alone. Specify that you will take care of dog in terms of vet care and bills, and provide a starter-kit--huge bag of dog food and container, food and water dishes, bedding, etc. In other words, make it easy for them to accept this healing gift. I have a depressed coaching client in Manhattan suffering aftermath of Nine One One who mostly talks to me about her beloved companion dog. I consider “Cody” part of healing team for this woman.

3. Make any decision you can for person. In other words, don't say "Would you like to go out for dinner tonight? Where would you like to go?" Say instead, "We're going to Bijan's tomorrow night for dinner. I'll pick you up at 7:00. Just wear your jeans." Once there, offer to order for person.