Are you sure?
This bookmark will be removed from all folders and any saved notes will be permanently removed.
If your friend is feeling sad or depressed
Originally appeared online in the teen series Q&A - October 4, 2022
Q: How can I help a friend who’s feeling sad or depressed?
A: I was at an event for my college when I noticed that one of my friends didn’t seem to be doing well. I didn’t want to ask her what was going on, since I wasn’t sure if she really was sad or what. But if she was sad or depressed, I did want to help her. So I went back to my dorm room, and I started praying the way I’ve learned in Christian Science—talking to God, asking God for help, and listening. In my prayer I said, “God, if there is something I need to know, please tell me.”
One day, about a week later, I was playing some hymns from the Christian Science Hymnal on the piano after a meeting when my friend came over and wanted me to play hymns for her. As I played, I noticed that she had tears in her eyes, so I stopped and asked her if everything was OK.
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

December 5, 2022 issue
View IssueEditorial
-
Facing what we fear
Larissa Snorek
Keeping Watch
-
A refreshing and transformative approach to mental health
Debbie Peck
-
Victory over cruelty
Name Withheld
- Image and Inspiration
-
Supply chain worries and a surefire way to seek help
Andrew Cutts
Teens
-
If your friend is feeling sad or depressed
Arnold Kalala
Healings
-
Chronic stomach pain disappears
Debora Denny
-
Prayer overcomes grief
Kristen Graham
-
Painful sore healed
Carolyn Garnaas
Bible Lens
-
God the Preserver of Man
December 5–11, 2022
Letters & Conversations
-
Letters & Conversations
Annette Kreutziger-Herr, Sue Holzberlein, Christie Hanzlik