Supporting Friends in Need

When a friend is struggling — whether they are sad, scared, embarrassed, or overwhelmed — the most powerful thing you can do is show up for them. Supporting a friend does not mean fixing their problem. It means letting them know they are not alone.

What supporting a friend looks like

• Notice the signs — a friend who is quieter than usual, pulling away, or seems upset may need support even if they have not said so.
• Check in gently — "Hey, you seem a bit down today — are you okay?" opens the door without pressure.
• Listen with empathy, without judgment — let them share without immediately telling them what to do or how to feel.
• Offer presence, not just advice — sometimes "I’m here for you" is more helpful than any solution.
• Ask what they need — "Do you want to talk, or do you just want company?"

When to involve a trusted adult

• If a friend says they are being hurt — physically or emotionally — by someone.
• If a friend talks about hurting themselves or others.
• If a friend is in a situation that is unsafe and beyond what you can help with.
• Getting a trusted adult is not betraying your friend — it is the most caring thing you can do.

What NOT to do

• Minimize their feelings: "It’s not that bad — just cheer up."
• Make it about yourself: "That happened to me too — let me tell you…"
• Spread their private information to others.
• Ignore the signs and hope the problem goes away on its own.