I posted this on another sub but got almost to no advice so i am posting it here again. 

I (21F) have a very close friend (22F) who’s going through depression. We go to different universities and don’t meet that often. She calls me once or twice every month and vents to me and I make sure to listen to her. I always make sure to check in on her and text her regularly. However, I honestly don’t know how i can console or help her because I am myself going through depression and I am suicidal. She does not know about my situation because I really don’t feel like talking about it.  I dont wanna overwhelm her with my situation and I want to be her listener. No one except myself knows about my situation. I tried talking to one of my close relatives (my age) but she twisted it saying I was overthinking.  

Anyways, I always try to listen to my friend and help her out. But, I am out of words to console her. I don’t want to say things like, “It gets better or everything will be alright,” because I know it won’t get better and I myself don’t want to her those things. We are college students barely making enough to pay for our classes and lunch so we can’t afford therapy either. I suggested her yoga and some free mental health sessions available on her campus but she explained that those were of no help. 

About 2 weeks ago when she called me and ranted about her problems and all i did was cry along with her. We both were quiet for good 10 minutes before she disconnected the call. I felt horrible.

I honestly dont know what to do. I want to help her but I don’t how. Any tips?