By Nathan Rice

I am 38 years old, but I will admit that I was excited when I saw the first trailer for the new Christopher Robin movie. Winnie the Pooh and his friends have gained millions of fans over the years, myself included. It should come as no surprise to those who have followed this series of articles that I feel a connection to Eeyore.

Eeyore is the donkey that could be a spokesperson for depression awareness. His gloomy persona hasn’t changed over the years, his stick house keeps collapsing, and his tail continually falls off.

The characters of the Hundred Acre Wood can teach us a lot about how to best support those we love who battle depression.

None of the characters behave differently when they are around Eeyore. Tigger is still bouncy, excited and happy while Pooh remains a “silly old bear.” You don’t have to change your personality when you’re around those who are struggling with depression. Be who you are, but also let them be who they are.

No one has ever asked Eeyore why he can’t be as happy as Tigger. His friends accept him for who he is and invite him to come along on their adventures. He’s never left out because he’s sad, and he’s never condemned because of his gloomy outlook.

Pooh and friends also know to check on Eeyore after a blustery day, so they can help him rebuild his house of sticks, and they aren’t afraid to search around the Hundred Acre Wood to help Eeyore find his lost tail. Keep a watch for things that you know might trigger an attack of depression for those you love. This can be a wide variety of things, but you might already know some things that could cause the dog of depression to rear its ugly head. If you are unsure of what might cause an attack, keep track of the times where your loved one seems to be struggling. Mark down events, dates and times where they seem to be struggling. Is there a common theme that you can note, such as the time of year or before or after a certain event?

We have additional options to support those we love who battle depression that are not available to Pooh and his friends. We can send an occasional text message, place a card in the mail or send a Facebook message that offers encouragement.

Little things like these can also go a long way in helping those who struggle with depression. It reminds them that they are not alone and can help battle the lies that no one cares. The goal is not to bombard them with a constant stream of items, but to occasionally send reminders that can uplift and encourage them. Everyone likes a nice surprise and for one struggling with depression a simple note of encouragement may do more than you realize.

Mainly, just be there for the one you love who struggles with depression. Let them know that your house is always open and that you’re only a phone call away. Let them know that you’re always willing to share a pot of honey with them. Continue to love, accept and support the Eeyore in your life.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is 800-273-8255.

Nathan Rice is a Hampton Roads native and can be reached at nrice@abnb.org.