I get cynical when I see copy paste depression support posts “to prove that someone is always there for you” because I remember when I was severely depressed and suicidal 99% of them weren't there for me.

To clarify: posting things on social media won't help with the problem if you neglect your friendships to the point where your friends don't even remember the last time you texted each other to say hi.

Depression isn't something you can just spring on someone.

In order for someone to feel like they can trust you with their suicidal thoughts you need to have a connection and some closeness in the first place. I can't just call a friend who haven't reached out for months and say, “Hey help me I wanna die.” Doesn't work like that.

So if you actually want to reach out to secretly depressed / suicidal friends, from my POV I suggest making your social media page supportive + non judgmental yes but also be active in maintaining friendships. Contact friends regularly just to ask them how they're doing.

Especially when there's been a death (losing a pet counts too), divorce, or financial stress such as unemployment or bankruptcy. Text them. Regularly. Forward memes and videos but most importantly again just a simple “so how are you doing?” will help build a bridge.