How to support a friend who is struggling
🔵 Wellness practice
You do not need special training to help a friend. Being there, listening and encouraging them to get the right support can make a real difference.
What helps
- Reach out. “You’ve seemed quiet lately. I’m here if you want to talk.”
- Listen more than you speak. Let them finish. You do not have to fix everything.
- Take them seriously. Avoid “Cheer up” or “Others have it worse”. Try “That sounds really hard.”
- Offer practical help. A meal, a walk together, or going with them to an appointment.
- Keep in touch. A short message a few days later shows you still care.
What to avoid
- Promising to keep a secret if their safety is at risk.
- Pushing advice they did not ask for.
- Gossiping about what they shared.
When to involve others
Encourage them to talk to a counsellor, doctor or someone they trust. If they talk about not wanting to live, or you think they may harm themselves, do not leave them alone, involve a trusted adult or family member, and contact emergency services or Tele-MANAS 14416. See Help & Safety.
Look after yourself too
Supporting someone can be heavy. It is fine to have limits and to talk to someone yourself.