THERESA: Having a circle of close girlfriends can be a powerful weapon against depression. As author Vicki Iovine notes in this story: "We need to nurture our 'girlfriendships' because these are the women who keep us laughing, who will diet with us (and agree to a rule saying Sundays Don't Count), who will notice we're not 'ourselves' before we do and will keep loving us until the real us returns."

JENICE: When I was much younger, I remember getting really upset over a breakup with some silly guy. My girlfriends rallied around, refusing to let me sulk all day inside my apartment. They kept calling, knocking on my door and putting up with me, until I finally got over it. I'll never forget that. So, yes, I know how important girlfriends are when it comes to weathering life's storms.

APRIL: My friends have seen me at my happiest and my worst, yet no matter what the mood, they manage to make me laugh. They know more about me sometimes than I do, and they are always burtally honest. This type of interaction really can't be duplicated by a mother, a sibling or a husband.

WENDY: I think female relationships are essential, and something that guys just can't do. There's a special way that women talk to, observe and care for each other that the most sensitive guy probably can't match. I know that many of you girlfriends have gotten me through many tough times with laughs, cosmos and wine!!

JILL: I think it's obvious that when people care for us and monitor our moods, it's more likely that our depression will be discovered and perhaps treated. I don't think it needs to be a girlfriend, but I suspect prodding by a girlfriend is more welcome and non-threatening than prodding by a family member or outsider. I think it's also well established that just having friends in the first place helps keep you emotionally stable.

On the other hand, with Cosmos and wine, who needs friends? (Joke!)

JULIE: I'm going through a tough time right now, and my girlfriends have been wonderful. I don't know what I would do without them. But I also have to say that I have some guy friends who have been just as understanding and supportive. They also make me laugh, which helps to ease the pain.

JENICE: I hear ya, Julie. Guy friends are special. But has anyone ever had a really, really close guy friend who didn't try to make a move?

THERESA: Gay ones.

JENICE: My point exactly.

JILL: Yes, I have -- more than one.

JENICE: Well, then, it's coming, Jill. Don't say you weren't warned!

YVONNE W: I seldom experience depression. But when I need a shoulder to cry on and sincere advice I rely on my friends male and female. I sincerely love them and that love is returned.

It's one of life's little pleasure!

KIMBERLY: It has been well documented that one of the reasons that women frequently out live men is their special friendships with girlfriends. Personally, my girlfriends have always been a source of love, inspiration, and support when I needed them the most.