1.     How to gauge if one needs professional help?   When a person has tried their best to cope and still sees no result or sees that their situation is worsening, it is a sign to seek help. Other extreme signs include suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, social withdrawal, and self-abuse. These signs are a definite indication to reach out!   2.     How can one be supportive to their close ones going through depression or a mental illness?   One first needs to understand that they need to maintain a balance in such a situation.  This means that it’s not always that a person going through depression would want to talk or has to constantly vent. It’s also important to let them know that you are there whenever they need you, even if it is just for a chat. Encourage them to take up activities that help them come out of their shell. Exercising in a gym or taking up other social activities can help them change their environment.