Learn more about how to help a friend who decides to reach out for support. Read up on how and when to start a conversation with a struggling friend. If you are worried about a friend and not sure how to help, you can text START to 741741 or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to chat with a trained counselor anytime. First and most importantly, if you believe there is an immediate threat and that your friend might harm themselves or someone else, call 9-1-1. What should you do when you notice a concerning change in your friend’s mood, behaviors, or what they say? This includes trusting your instincts and taking the risk to be honest about what you noticed and why you’re concerned. Part of being a good friend is showing up when someone we care about is going through a difficult time. Sometimes, even when our instincts tell us that something is off with one of our friends, we second guess our own feelings because we don’t want to make a wrong assumption and offend them or push them away. 
How Can I Help a Friend Who is Struggling? This is especially true if the signs you notice do not resolve after a day or so or when a situational stressor ends. It’s important to remember that you are not trying to diagnose your friend–instead, it’s helpful to know that they may be experiencing something and could use extra support. Withdrawing from activities or friends can be a sign of an eating disorder. It’s also important to remember that some warning signs don’t look the way we’d expect them to. It’s not always easy to tell if a friend is struggling emotionally, as many of these changes may happen gradually and may not seem so severe at first. Warning signs may not always be clear-cut Using sad, distressed emoticons or emoticons of destructive things such as guns and knives.Using hashtags that are connected to topics you find unusual or worrisome for them (#overit #imdone #igiveup).
Posting dark poetry or quotes, disturbing songs or videos.Posting comments such as, “I hate myself,” or “I suck at everything.”.Frequent negative comments about their weight or other aspects of their appearance.
“I don’t feel well.” (Or expressing other physical complaints, like constant headaches, exhaustion, or stomach cramps). “I’m messing up everything in my life.”. Overreacting to situations or becoming sad, irritated, angry, or aggressive more easilyĬhanges in what they say to you or others. Having trouble coping with everyday stressors or challenges, or worrying and stressing out more than usual. Neglecting hygiene or basic care, like how often they bathe or change clothes. Showing impaired judgment or reduced inhibitions. Increasing their use of drugs and alcohol. Eating differently, either losing their appetite, or eating much more than usual. Being less productive at work or school. Isolating themselves from friends and family, and communicating less than normal. No longer participating in activities they once enjoyed. How can you tell whether a friend is just having a tough day or dealing with something more serious? Keep an eye out for some of these common warning signs of emotional struggle: Changes in behavior How Can I Tell if a Friend is Struggling?
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