How to help/support a friend?

[11JB68]

If this is an inappropriate question for the forum, moderators feel free to remove it please. I'm asking as there is a lot of compassion and wisdom here, though this is not pd related.
I have a coworker who I care about and who is open about her depression/anxiety and past suicide (attempt? Thoughts?)
She is going through something very difficult and is really struggling and clearly fearful that she will plunge to that level again.
What can I/should I do to help/support her?
I consider her a 'work friend', I need to maintain boundaries but I do care about her situation and I don't want to ignore the seriousness of her mental health challenges.

[notrightinthehead]

It is wise of you to remind yourself that you must maintain boundaries considering your caregiver tendencies. And it is kind of you wanting to be there for a work friend.
There is an communication approach, Rogerian or person centred, which is used widely in suicide lines - you reflect and validate what the other expresses.  You empathize with something like "that must be hard", you pose open questions, you listen, you summarize. You do not give advice or solutions at all. At best you ask for options or solutions. You support any signs of strength.
I am sure you will find out more, as much as you need to. But please, stick to your resolve and protect yourself!

[11JB68]

Thank you not right!
I looked that up and will try to utilize that idea.

[1footouttadefog]

You could also ask her how you can support her and let her know some things you are willing to do or provide.

Examples might be go out for a lunch or a beer.  Accept calls for support, accept a list of prayer items. 

Help her with a project, or whatever.

Just keep boundaries and only offer things you can be okay with. Etc etc.