It can be tough to support a friend going through a crisis if you have never been through that particular crisis before, but that doesn't stop you from being a good friend. A listening ear is one thing, but you need to recognize when a friend of yours is struggling.
Ideally, you’ll notice their behavior changing. You’ll feel suspicious when they’re suddenly without money but continually partying. If your friend is in a crisis, you need to figure it out quickly so that you can help them to reach out and get help. Some friends who are struggling with things like addiction could use the help of a dual diagnosis treatment center, so if you notice that they aren’t feeling great, you need to help. Reaching out to a struggling friend is not easy, especially if they don’t want your help. However, we’ve got six ways you can reach out to them and make them feel supported.
Listen Closely
You may listen to your friends talk to you about their problems, but are you really hearing them? Sometimes, it can make a massive difference just knowing that you are there for them, so check in on them from time to time. Listen when they tell you what will help and then assist them with getting what they need.
Ask
How often do you wish that someone would just ask you what you need? It isn’t easy to speak up and say when you’re in difficulty, but you may find that by simply asking them what they need, they will tell you and you can do what you can to help.
Connect
It’s so important to be empathetic to your friend when they need you. They need to feel like someone is listening correctly, and your connection to them is going to be so much stronger if you show some empathy.
Encourage
We spoke about a treatment center above, but it can make a big difference to them if you are in their corner and encouraging them to seek the help they need. They need the right advice, not just any help, and you are the person to deliver that help to them with your support. If they’re talking about something and you have a solution, or at least some practical advice, like suggesting ABA therapy techniques from autism therapists if that would be useful, make sure you mention it - it could make all the difference.
Talk To Them
You’re worried about how they’re doing and their behavior, so you must speak up to them about it. It would help if you told them you’re afraid, and you want them to feel good - not sad anymore. You don't have to be a trained professional to let them know you’re worried. You can simply voice your concerns. Sometimes, it can be enough to help them to notice that their behavior has gone downhill.
Give Them Your Time
Even if the time that you spend with them is watching Netflix and chilling out, you should give them your time. Sometimes, it’s all you need to do. A hug and your company can be enough. You don't have to talk everything to death all the time, either, so just talk to them about what they need and be there.
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