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One of the most important ways a person can be a good friend is to help a friend when they notice something is wrong. This includes helping them get the support they need and deserve if they are experiencing a mental health condition. This might seem like a big task, but it doesn't have to be.
No matter how much a person cares about their friend that persons own mental health comes first. How are they supposed to take care of someone else if they're not taking care of themselves? While a person is helping a struggling friend they should remember to frequently check in with themselves and take a step back if they are getting overwhelmed or drained. Respecting boundaries is important.
These are common warning signs and things to look out for. Knowing the signs ahead of time could save a friend's life.
Talk to your friend or someone you trust about your concerns.
Keep in mind that the friend might not be ready to talk about what they are going through or simply may not want help right now. A person can't force someone to get help, so they just have to do their best to be there with their friend throughout their journey and be ready if and when they do reach out for help. It may be helpful to reach out with specific things like:
You can play an important role in helping a friend build a positive, social support network. Here are ways to do that:
Call or text the friend once or twice a week. Check in with them after their therapy appointments to see how things went. Let them know that someone is there.
Even if the friend doesn't always come, they will probably appreciate being included.
Find out more about what the friend is going through to be able to better help them in future situations.
Such as “you’ll get over it,” “toughen up,” “snap out of it.” A friend needs to hear that they are not alone and that they can get through this. Reassure them that everything will be okay and that someone is there for them.
Being a friend means being there in easy times and more difficult times. If a friend is experiencing a mental health condition, this is a time when they need someone the most. Sometimes just talking might help a friend feel less alone and more understood. By listening a person can be the difference in helping a friend who needs support but is too afraid to seek help. Just a simple conversation can go a long way in helping a friend.