Ways to Help a Friend in Need
If you are in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, there are free, 24/7 services that can help—like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, The Trevor Project Lifeline, and Crisis Connections.
Sometimes, friends go through difficult situations—like feeling stressed, anxious, hopeless, or depressed—and they need someone to talk to. As someone who cares about them, it’s natural to want to support and help them. But it’s not always easy to know how. What can you say while still respecting their boundaries? Is it okay to just be there for them and not say anything at all? Is there someone that you or they can talk to?
First, know that even wanting to be there for them means you’re already a great friend. And while you help them, remember that it’s important to take care of yourself too.
Here are a few other tips that can help:
Listen
Right now, your friend probably needs your time and company—even if they can’t find the right words. Your actions speak loudly. And having someone there who they can trust and who listens without judgement might be just what they need.
So, let them lead the conversation, ask questions, and really listen. If you have advice, ask if you can offer a suggestion before launching in. Sometimes your friend may just want you to listen and other times your friend may want your input and help in solving a problem.
Trust Your Gut
When it comes to doing something helpful for them, trust your instincts. Sometimes, asking how you can help puts the work on your friend—who’s probably already overwhelmed. Instead, try thinking about times you’ve needed support—what did your friends do? What did you find the most helpful?
Still not sure? Try one (or some) of these:
- Bring them a nourishing lunch or snack
- Write them a hand-written letter that lets them know how important they are
- Pick some fresh flowers
- Donate to a charity in their honor
- Spend some one-on-one time with them—virtually or from a distance
- Make them laugh
- Get them a journal they can use to help process their feelings
No matter how big or small the gesture is, what important is that you’ve taken the initiative to alleviate some pressure from your friend’s life.
Point Towards the Future
Depending on the situation, it can be hard for your friend to imagine a time when they won’t feel like they currently do. When or if you feel like they’re ready, try being positive about the future or focusing on specific happy moments that are in front of you.
If they shut down, then table it and try again another time.
Don’t Give Up
Now might not be the right time for them to accept your help, but that doesn’t mean it won’t ever be—so don’t let their refusal upset you and keep checking in. It’s important to respect their space and needs, but it’s okay to let them know you’re always there when they do need you.
Encourage Support Services
If you believe that your friend is even thinking about something like harming themselves (including suicide) or harming others, tell a trusted adult—like a parent; doctor; or a school support staff member such as a teacher, coach, or counselor—immediately. It may not be easy, but you could save lives.
If you feel like you or your friend would benefit from talking to someone in general, there are organizations and support groups that can help. Here are just a few:
- Teen Link
A confidential and free help line answered by teens from 6-10 p.m., all year long. You can talk to them about whatever is on your mind and they can be a great resource for your friend too. Call/text/chat 1-866-833-6546. - The Washington Recovery Help Line
An anonymous, confidential 24-hour help line for those experiencing substance use disorder, problems gambling, and/or a mental health challenge. The help line is open 24 hours a day. Call 1-866-789-1511. - Crisis Connections
A 24-hour crisis line. Call to talk about anything, including suicide—1-866-427-4747. - The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
A hotline that provides 24/7 service—call or text 988. - The Trevor Project Lifeline
The only nationwide, around-the-clock suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline for LGBTQ youth. Talk to someone at 1-866-488-7386—it’s free and confidential.
Take Care of You
Being a supportive friend to someone who’s going through a hard time can be a big responsibility to take on. That’s why it’s important to look after yourself too. Doing things like watching your own mood and stress levels and taking time to relax will make you happier—and in turn, make you a better line of support for your friend.
So, don’t give up the things you enjoy and ask for support when you need it too.