Last modified: Thursday, April 17, 2008 1:57 AM EDT How can I help my depressed cousin? By TeenGrowth.com / Q: My cousin has been diagnosed with clinical depression and now she relies on me to give her all the advice. I try my best but it's a really hard job. She has little or no self-esteem and anything I tell her, she doesn't believe. I would really like to help her boost her self-esteem so that she can get better but I don't know how. A: You are definitely in a tough position. Having someone rely on you for advice and support can be difficult, but it's nice to hear how much you want to help. Since you mention she has been diagnosed with clinical depression, we hope she is receiving professional counseling. Your cousin has a medical condition, and while we know you want to help, she really needs the assistance of a trained professional. This is the best way for your cousin to get better. We're not telling you to ignore your cousin, because she probably values your support. What we are suggesting is that you shouldn't try to carry on your own shoulders all of the responsibilities of helping your cousin. This would be too difficult for you and it may not be helpful to your cousin. The fact that you took the time to write us demonstrates that you care, and this characteristic is the one that will help your cousin. As long as you continue to care, offer what support you can, and encourage your cousin to seek professional help, she will be traveling a safe road for improved health. Self-esteem is built by learning to value yourself as who you are. Self-confidence is developed by learning you can do certain things successfully. Encourage your cousin to work with her therapist on these issues, and give her lots of positive feedback for each small step she takes. To have TeenGrowth's board of physicians answer your health question, visit the Web site (http://www.teengrowth.com) or e-mail feedback@teengrowth.com. TeenGrowth is a non-commercial Internet site that focuses exclusively on the educational health issues of adolescents.