Ways to help a depressed friend?

[Lastyearsmodel]

I have a lovely friend I have known since college days. We have stayed in rather infrequent touch over the years, but still make time for each other. She's been on depression medication for many years after an illness that led to severe pain (plus possibly psychosomatic pain, I could never quite get the complete story). But she functioned, had a job (self-employed, artist), had several long-term relationships, could always laugh about things, very dry sense of humour, etc.

Anyway, I found out in our last phone conversation that her partner of 10 years had had an affair and left her for a woman he has now married and is expecting a child with (after saying he didn't want children with my friend).

My friend is, understandably, in pieces. This happened about 9 months ago but she has told me she just can't move on. She can't work or begin to move forward in any way.

I don't live near her but we have arranged to meet up soon.

Realistically, how can I help her? She is 'in the system' for mental health services but sounds like she's going round in circles because her circumstances have changed (ie her depression has got worse due to her relationship breaking down) and can't seem to access the hlp she needs (counselling?).

Does anyone have experience they can pass on to me? Can I do anything more than be a good listener?

[bittersweetvictory]

Her first port of call should really be back to her GP, if she has been on the same mecication for years then maybe its not working anymore or she needs a change of medication, she should talk to her GP about the councelling but in some areas unfortunatly there is a lack of services or long waiting lists but she should tell GP of change of circumstances.
you are obviously a good freind and being a good listener will help a lot.
if she feels so bad that she just cant cope then she should go to hospital as that can sometimes hurry the councelling along a bit.

[Lastyearsmodel]

Thanks, that's helpful. I just don't know where to start, really, and don't want to say anything stupid/wrong/tactless.

What worried me about our last conversation was that she sounded so low. Usually, she can tell me about her problems but will brighten up or joke about things, but this time she sounded very bleak.