People smoke because they find it a stress release, just like some people drink alcohol or do drugs. This is not the time for him to quit smoking. If you want to help him then go on the internet and look up the symptoms of depression.
Sit down with him and tell him you love him and care enough for him that you looked up the information and see if you can't get him to see his family doctor. He should have a good physical to be sure he doesn't have something else such a thyroid disorder, adrenal gland problems, diabetes, hormonal deficiency, etc. Then if all tests come back the doctor will ask him questions and decide if your uncle needs to be put on medications for depression along with good therapy from a counselor. Deal with one thing at a time.
Ignore his smoking and get to the root of the problem and then once things settle down for him perhaps he'll quit smoking Good luck. He's lucky to have you!
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.