How can I help a friend?

• - Give your friend information to help them understand what it is they are feeling.
• - Talk to your friend and show you care. Show them that you are there to listen to them and let them talk about their feelings. Remember it is ok not to have any answers or to know what to say, and it is ok to tell your friend this. It's more important that people have someone who will listen and not judge.
• - Don't expect them to 'pull themselves together' or to pretend to be happy when they are feeling low.
• - Ask your friend if there is anything you can do to help.
• - Don't leave your friend out of things with other friends. Even if they find it hard to join in some of the time it is important that they still know people care.
• - Don't take it personally if your friend stops going out as it is likely to do with how they are feeling and not you. Perhaps you could go round to your friend's house some nights instead of going out.
• - Make sure you look after yourself! Make time and do fun things. Practice what you preach and talk to other people about how you are feeling!

Remember - you cannot take responsibility for making your friend better. Sometimes when people feel really low the last thing they may want is to talk to an adult or anyone else knowing.

But if you are concerned about a friend it is important that they do see a Doctor and you must speak to a trusted adult for advice.

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