Noticing when someone is struggling can make a big difference. Look out for changes in behavior, mood and daily functioning – these can be important signals that someone may need support.

Changes in behavior:

• Skipping class or missing responsibilities
• Risky behavior (e.g., reckless driving, unsafe sex, self-harm)

What they might be saying:

• “What’s the point?”
• “I’m just so tired all the time.”
• “I’d rather just be alone.”
• “Everything just annoys me lately.”

What they might be feeling:

• Anxiety and intense sadness
• Emotional numbness or detachment
• Feeling trapped or stuck
• Believing things won’t improve

Physical or routine changes:

• Noticeable decline in personal hygiene
• Major changes in sleep patterns (too much or too little)
• Disrupted eating habits
• Drop in academic performance

Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth checking in.

Starting the conversation can feel uncomfortable—but showing genuine concern can make a big difference. Approach the person with empathy, curiosity, and patience.

What you can say:

• “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately.”
• “I just wanted to check in—how are you doing?”
• “You’ve been on my mind. Is everything okay?”

How to ask:

• Be warm, present, and non-judgmental
• Ask with an open heart, not just out of obligation
• It’s okay to ask more than once, sometimes people need time to feel safe opening up
• Listen more than you speak
• Use a calm, caring tone—your attitude matters as much as your words

Be patient:

• It might take more than one conversation for someone to feel comfortable
• Respect their pace, and let them know you’re available when they’re ready

Sometimes, the best support is simply listening. Listening helps people feel heard, valued and understood. Sometimes just being there and truly listening makes all the difference.

• Take their words seriously – listen with care and avoid interrupting or rushing them
• Accept their experiences without judgement and let them know you recognize how difficult things seem for them.
• Be fully present and actively listen. Show you’re engaged through your body language and eye contact.
• “That sounds really tough—I’m sorry you’re going through this right now.”
• “Thank you for talking to me, I know that isn’t easy”
• Offer empathy and validation by acknowledging their feelings and letting them know it’s okay to feel the way they do.
• If they need time to gather their thoughts, give them the space and sit with the silence.

Gently support them in thinking about next steps—whether that’s reaching out to a professional, connecting with someone they trust, or exploring helpful coping strategies.

Here are some ways you can talk to your friend to help them encourage action:

• “How would you like me to help?”
• “What has worked for you in the past?”
• “When I was going through a difficult time I tried this… do you think this would be useful for you?”
• “If I’m not around when you need my support, you can always call this helpline or…”

Encourage them to take small, manageable actions that feel right for them to ease their emotional load.

• You could suggest going on a walk, practicing self-care, or you can help with simple tasks.
• Sometimes just being there matters and normalizing getting professional support is enough.
• Share Brock’s services to support mental health.

Your support can mean the world to someone struggling. Remind them that they are not alone.

Remember to keep checking in on your friends, so they know you’re there if they just need to talk. Your genuine care and concern can make a real difference.

Here are some ways you can check back in on your friends:

• “Hey, thank you for sharing with me yesterday. How are things going today?”
• Add a reminder in your calendar or your phone to reach out in a couple of weeks, if you’ve noticed they’re really struggling, check back in earlier.
• “Would it be helpful if I came by, or we grabbed a coffee and caught up?”
• “I just wanted to remind you that you’re not alone. Anything on your mind?”
• “Yesterday you seemed super overwhelmed, how are you feeling today?”

Supporting friends and loved ones – especially during difficult times – can be emotionally and mentally demanding. It’s important to look after your own wellbeing, too.

Here are a few ways to ensure you’re taking care of yourself while being there for others:

• Regularly check in with yourself
• Take time to reflect on your emotional state. Ask yourself:
• Am I feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted?
• Do I need a break or someone to talk to?
• Know Your Limits

Helping others should never come at the expense of your own health. If you’re feeling drained or burned out:

• It’s okay to step back or say no.
• You can’t pour from an empty cup – your health comes first
• Seek Support for Yourself

Supporting others doesn’t mean you have to carry it all alone. Without breaking anyone’s trust:

• Talk to someone about how you’re feeling.
• Expressing your own emotions can prevent emotional buildup and reduce stress.
• Practice Ongoing Self-Care
• Make space in your day for things that recharge you:
• Friends, Family and loved ones
• Nature
• Exercise
• Meditation