My friend is having a hard time coping with life right now. I know that talking helps everything and all, but I'm not sure what to say when confronted with his problems. He gets really depressed about his ex and son and not being able to see them because they moved across the state. He visits his psychiatrist once a month, but he doesn't trust him, he tells me. How can I help him feel better?

First of all it's good you're being a good friend in being there to support him, that's the most you can do. The bothering part is, we cannot always alter it that easily, but we can sit and listen and support them whenever they need it. But, what really is needed is a professional involved, which i know you said he has, but this is only once a month, and if he's not happy with this person i'm sure there are others that will be suitable, that will see your friend frequently. It must be tough being in a situation where someone you're close to lives a distance away, aswell as having these problems. But yeah, try and mention it to him about maybe finding a more regular appointment. I know it's not easy always finding these places, however it will be well worth the wait, to find someone he is comfortable around. I'm sure you're trying your best to help and support your friend, which is the most you can do, aswell as advise of course. These problems really aren't so simple to overcome alone, i know i couldn't have gotten this far without seeing someone, it's just finding that right person.

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Just being there to talk is so amazing. You could also try Byron Katie's cognitive therapy with him - Jenny McCarthy has just released a movie about her which is very helpful. x

Byron Katie is OK. Not great, however. She's too concentrated on her formula and not concentrated enough on who she's talking to. What's this film you speak of?