How to cheer up a lost soul

[NewToDarkSpaces]

A person very very close to me has totally lost themselves over the last 3 years. A relationship of at least 10 years ended with hugest heartbreak, he subsequently closed down his business which he'd invested 10s of thousands of his own hard earned cash and has since been working in a job which earns him loads but which kills him on a daily basis. He has spoken of suicide at times and has totally lost his zing. He's 38 years old, very good looking, wealthy by his own making and a super loyal, deep, historically fun human being.

How can I help him? He refuses to go to therapy. He agonises over whether to get a dog, a companion because getting a dog will disempower him in finding love again because of the time commitment (I have no pov here btw). He seems unable to think clearly about what's good for him.

Does anyone have any advice? He was once the most inspiring positive thinker. He flies in his work, but he's broken.

Thank you

Definitely therapy. I think there's bound to be articles online for people who are scared/misinformed about it.
And a dog too. Yes it's a commitment but the good outweighs the bad.
However the reality is that you can encourage and support him but only he can decide to change. Keep being a good friend though.

I know some therapists also work as life coaches and as your friend was previously a high achieving type this may appeal more, less traditional therapy and more action focused. I would word it as he seems to be in a period of transition, in a job he excels in but is unhappy with and some coaching may help him to refocus his talent in an area that would bring him a better sense of fulfillment. As for the dog as companion idea, while great in theory it may be better to suggest he becomes a volunteer dog walker for a local charity, this way he gets the joy of dog interaction without the new owner stress, he can then decide if a dog is the right move when life feels better for him.

Now that things are opening back up again could you and him maybe go to some local meet ups or if he has any hobbies (walking, books etc..) maybe go along to those sort of things with him. He'll get to meet and interact with new people, possibly meet potential partners even.

The suggestions on here are really good - life coach and meet ups. Also don’t get a young puppy as can be hard work. Rescue dog? Obviously they can come with issues too but it might feel like they are helping each other in a way.

A good friend of mine was widowed 4yrs ago, he didn't find Bereavement counselling very helpful and has struggled to deal with life since.
He got a puppy, having never owned a dog in his live, and he has loved every bit of being a dog owner. Admittedly the puppy has been very well behaved, slept through the night after a week, and my friend finds having someone else to focus on helpful. My friend is also retired though, so has had the time to spend with the puppy, and train him - if he had've struggled with the dog I would have had the dog myself, having had them previously, so we did have a Plan B if things hadn't worked out - a dog is a good idea fir some, but have a back up plan, just incase it doesn't work out quite as planned