Florida’s Seniors

“Life is not a waste as long as there is at least one person in the world who cares for you. So when things go wrong and you feel like giving up – remember you’ve got me!”

“Failures destroy weak people and temper potent people. You are strong, so do not worry and move on.”

“Cheer up sweet beautiful girl! You are going to love again, and it will be magnificent.”

“It’s always hard to move on after the break-up with someone who really meant something to you because it’s hard to find a way out of the memories and feelings, but remember if you can’t find your way out just turn back because, in love, you can always exit where you entered.”

“Now the sky is overcast, but soon the sun will appear. The problems do not last forever, everything will be fine!”

“Once they move, they’re gone. Once you move, life starts over again.”

“Let us be of good cheer, however, remembering that the misfortunes hardest to bear are those which never come.”

Do activities together. Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet can help reduce the depression symptoms. (6,7) This is a good way to lighten the mood and be supportive.

Understand you don’t really know the depths of how they feel. Your friend could be going through a condition that may be beyond your understanding. Say something like this: “I may not understand what you are going through, but I want to learn more.” (7)

“Stop cheering me up.” Try a different approach when you hear something like that. Be subtle and ask for more details. Maybe all that’s necessary is to be a good listener. Studies show some people would rather wallow in misery and prefer “negative” rather than “positive” validation. (1,2)