Help My Friend · 3 min read
Your friend isn’t acting like themselves.
Being the one who noticed is a big deal. You are not responsible for fixing them — but you can make it much easier for them to get real help.
Signs worth taking seriously
- • They’ve gone quiet, or dropped things they used to love
- • Big changes in sleep, eating, energy or mood
- • Giving things away, or talking like they won’t be around
- • More risky behaviour, or hurting themselves
- • Saying they’re a burden, or that nothing matters
If they might not be safe
Do not carry this alone and do not keep it secret. Tell a trusted adult today — a parent, counselor, teacher or coach.
In the US, call or text 988 for guidance, even if it is about someone else. If they are in immediate danger, call 911.
See all urgent optionsThings that help to say
- “You’ve seemed different lately. I’m not judging — I just noticed.”
- “You don’t have to explain it well. I’ll just listen.”
- “That sounds really heavy. I’m glad you told me.”
- “Can we tell someone who can actually help? I’ll go with you.”
Things to skip
- • “Just cheer up” or “others have it worse”
- • Promising to keep a secret that involves their safety
- • Trying to fix it alone or diagnose them
- • Disappearing because it feels like too much — say what you can do instead
Try this now
Send one short message today: “Hey — you’ve seemed off lately. No pressure to explain. I’m around.” Then tell one adult you trust what you noticed, especially if safety is involved.
And you?
Supporting someone is heavy. It is allowed to be hard for you too, and it does not mean you care less.
Did this help?
Guidance reviewed September 2026. Educational support only — not a diagnosis or crisis service.