How to talk to friends about mental health

Think a friend might be struggling? Here are some tips to help you reach out.

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Not sure where to begin? Set a calendar reminder to check in or follow up on your friend.

Learn the signs

Have you noticed something’s off with a friend? If you’re worried about their mental health, here are a few signs to look out for.

Impulsive behaviors or being more irritated than usual

Changes in their usual habits (eating or sleeping patterns, changing their apperance, etc.)

Talking about feelings of loneliness or despair

Excessive worry or
trouble concentrating

Substance misuse

Even if these signs aren’t present, it’s always helpful to check in with a friend and remind them you’re there for them.

Starting the conversation

If you think a friend is struggling, reach out to them. Checking in doesn’t mean you have to have an intense heart to heart.

You could try

Asking a friend to play a pick-up game of your favorite sport

Casually asking while playing an online game together

Asking “what’s up” in a DM or text

Inviting them to go on a walk or take a drive around the neighborhood.

Have a shared hobby? Try using that activity as an opportunity to check in.

Opening the door to begin a conversation can really help. Not sure where to start? Try one of these opening lines.

"If you need to talk to someone, don't be afraid to reach out to a trusted adult."

During the conversation

If they are able to open up to you,

you might be nervous about the conversation. Even if it feels awkward at first, trust your instincts - you probably know what your friend really needs.

Ask open-ended questions. Help them to talk, not just say “yes” or “no”.

Listen up. Let them take the lead and open up at their own speed.

Avoid offering advice or trying to fix their problems.

Let them know it’s OK to feel the way they do.

Don’t worry about finding the perfect words to say — just be there and let them know they have your support.

Encourage them to talk to an expert if needed.

Even if these signs aren’t present, it’s always helpful to check in with a friend and remind them you’re there for them.

Following up

No matter how the first conversation went, don't give up on your friend. Your willingness to continue checking in, listening, and simply being present helps more than you know.

Keep the invitations going. Show your friend that you’re there for them. Stay available and keep checking in.

Handle their trust with care. If they choose to open up to you, show you care and avoid gossiping or turning people against them.

If you need to talk to someone, don't be afraid to reach out to a trusted adult.

Looking for more in-depth tips and resources?

Getting more help

Reach out for support if needed.

In an emergency

If you or your friend needs urgent help, call 911 right away or take your friend to the emergency room for assistance. If you feel it’s safe, stay with your friend or find someone to stay with them until help arrives.

In an crisis

You are not alone, and help is available 24/7. You can reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting SEIZE to 741741. Or call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (Press 1 for Veterans, Press 2 for Spanish).