In today's Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to someone who isn't sure how to help their longtime friend who is suffering from a mental illness.

Every summer since starting college they have worked a summer job that required them to live on-site, a couple hours’ drive away from home. This year, because that seasonal position was eliminated, they have found a job in their college town (300 miles away) and will remain there all summer.

It’s overwhelming to me, and I want to distance myself, but it makes me feel guilty because I am indebted to Jane’s parents for their lifelong kindness to me. Jane’s extended family

St. Pauli’s Eric Smith (28) features at the top of Olympique Lyonnais’ shopping list, according to a report from Foot Mercato. Lyon are set to lose elements of their defence this summer. Duje

Dear Eric: I am in my 70s so I should know better. Almost two years ago I had to put my 13-year-old Yorkshire terrier Shorty to sleep. This broke my heart. Within a couple of months, I decided to get another dog, this time a Yorkie named Buddy. I realize now this was such a big mistake. I should not have done this so quickly.

He just sits all day and watches TV or is on his computer. He will pour a drink in the morning and drink all day.

In this Asking Eric, readers navigate the bittersweet feelings of kids growing into independence and the exhausting challenge of supporting a lifelong friend in crisis. Eric shares advice on