First and foremost, you need to take her to a psychiatrist as severe depression with suicidal tendencies is one of a reason for emergency psychiatric consultation. If possible, the whole family should visit. Major Severe depression is clinically diagnosed when a person presents with following symptoms ( atleast 5) for 2 week period 1. Depressed mood most of the day 2. Diminished interest or pleasure in most of the activities 3. Significant weight loss or gain 4. Excessive sleep or lack of sleep 5. Fatigue or loss of energy 6. Agitation over trivial issues 7. Feeling of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt 8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate 9. Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation or suicide attempt Management involves both pharmacotherapy (medication) and behavioural therapy (with support of family, friends and clinician). At your end, you can start with following measures, Be a patient listener and discuss her feelings. Identify any possible triggering factors ( loss of love, work pressure, marital discord, performance issues). Explain her mother about the possibility of depression and need to handle it tactfully. Encourage aerobic exercises atleast five days in a week ( it helps!) Set realistic small goals n give her responsibility to accomplish them ( keeping in mind her present capabilities) Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation And of utmost importance, ensure she does not have easy access to any possible suicidal objects ( sharp things, drugs) and do not let her stay alone. I hope this should give you a plan of action.. do feel free to ask any further queries . remember, the road to recovery might be long but few small efforts each day shall be handy. Thanks