J.K. Rowling tweets touching advice to fan asking for help with depression

J.K. Rowling has shared some touching words for a fan who asked for help in her battle with depression.

The Harry Potter author, 50, responded after Twitter user Marina, 18, reached out to her on the social media platform.

'@jk_rowling could you please teach me how to scare the dementors that have been living under my bed? i'm tired of being sad all the time', Marina wrote.

Dementors are creatures from the Harry Potter world that 'suck' the happiness out of a place or person. 'Dementors are among the foulest creatures that walk this earth. They infest the darkest, filthiest places, they glory in decay and despair, they drain peace, hope, and happiness out of the air around them... Get too near a Dementor and every good feeling, every happy memory will be sucked out of you,' the novels explain to the readers.

J.K., real name Joanne, quickly replied 'They're bothering a unique, valuable human being who deserves happiness. Ask for help. Don't fight alone. Big hug.'

After J.K., who has over 6.7 million Twitter followers, publicised Marina's plea with a retweet, more advice from fans all over the world began to pour in.

'And don't forget to eat chocolate every now & then! *hugs from another person fighting her dementors*', one wellwisher wrote, while another added 'Expecto patronum comes in many forms how to cope with depression is never easy.

However, there is help available - for more information, visit mind.org.uk or speak to your GP to discuss your options.