It’s not always easy knowing where to start or what to say.
How do I start the conversation when I can see my mate needs professional support?
The best way is to do so in the most normal and natural way for you and that friend.
You don’t have to speak differently or go to an environment that is strange to you both. If you usually go for a pint, do it there. If you go for a run every Saturday, do it then.
It can be text, voice note or email, whatever is natural for you both.
Just be honest, tell them you’ve noticed they’re not themselves and offer support in helping them find the help they may need.
Things you can do
- Be yourself, talk as you normally would
- Be honest
- Tell your friend what you have noticed, recognising it might be different to what they see
Useful links & resources
The Hub of Hope Hub of Hope
The Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by Chasing the Stigma, the national mental health charity, and brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place for the first time.