If you’re worried about how a friend is feeling , it can be really hard to know what to say or how to help.
Reaching out to someone could help them know that someone cares, that they are valued. It can also help them get the support they need.
Here is some simple advice that will help you, help your friend.
Listen
Listen to your friend. This might seem obvious but it will have taken a lot of courage for them to come to you.
Don’t push them but let them just talk and share what they feel ready to.
Don't Judge
Everybody copes with life stresses in different ways.
You can help your friend find safe ways to cope by pointing them in the right direction. Remember not to be judgemental about their current way of coping.
Support
Offer to support your friend to get help if that is what they want. You can offer to be with them if they are ready to talk to someone.
While you are supporting your friend don’t forget about yourself. To look after someone else, you need to look after yourself first.
Talk to an Adult You Trust
There are many people you can turn to. Your friend might want to talk to a teacher, parent, doctor or other trusted adult.
You need to also look after yourself so make sure you seek help too.
There are lots of places online to get free, confidential advice and support:
Online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support.
Help for young people get mental health support.
There's always someone to talk to.
Help to overcome issues related to self harm.
Who Can Help?
If you or your friend need more advice or support, we can help you get to the right person. You don't need a referral, you can get in touch straight away.
You can phone us at Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or if you are 11-19 you can text Chathealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our Healthy Child Programme team.
You can also get help from these local, national and digital organisations.
