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Four Signs a Friend Needs Mental Health Support

December 17, 2024  |  friends, Mental illness
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It’s not always easy to tell when someone you care about is struggling with their mental health. Close friends and family members may not directly ask you for help — but they may exhibit changes and behaviors that signal they’re going through a tough time.

By learning to spot the signs, you can know when to reach out and encourage a friend or loved one to seek help if needed.

Here are a few signs someone may need mental health support:

 

1.     Changes in Mood or Behavior

When you spend a lot of time with someone, it’s noticeable when something is “off.” Even if your friend says everything’s okay, subtle changes to their mood and behavior can raise concern. This could look like irritability, intense worry, crying regularly, feeling extra tired or fatigued, or appearing “down” for more than two weeks.

If your friend isn’t reacting or responding normally to everyday life stressors, it could be an indication that something serious is going on.

 

2.    Withdrawing from Social Activities

Another sign to watch for is a friend suddenly becoming disinterested in the hobbies, events, and activities they once loved. While everyone needs alone time, isolation and withdrawal can be a red flag. Let them know you’re there to talk if they need to.

 

3.    Physical Warning Signs

Sometimes, mental health struggles show up as physical changes to one’s body. These can include:

●      Changes in appetite — extreme weight loss or gain

●      Decline in hygiene and grooming habits

●      Lack of sleep or excessive sleep

●      Unexplained aches and pains, such as stomachaches or headaches

●      Relying on drugs or alcohol to “feel better”

●      Self-harm actions such as cutting or burning (people may wear long sleeves or long pants to cover up)

If you’re concerned about one of these physical changes in a friend, check in with care and ask how they’re feeling.

 

4.   Changes in Online Behavior

Even if someone is good at hiding their feelings in person, their interactions on social media can tell a different story. Pay attention to concerning shifts in their online behavior, such as:

●      Going “dark” on social media if they used to post frequently

●      Cryptic messages, such as “I don’t know how much more I can take” or “No one will miss me.”

●      Liking or sharing from accounts that post depressing photos or quotes

      If you see a concerning post, don’t hesitate to ask about it. It could open the door to a meaningful conversation with your friend.

 

How to Help a Friend

One of the best things you can do as a friend is speak up when you think something is wrong. If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, trust your instincts and don’t wait to check in on them.

You don’t have to fix things or have all the answers. Simply letting someone know that you care and are willing to listen can make a big difference in their life.

Here are some conversation starters you can use:

●      I’ve noticed you seem down lately. Is everything okay?

●      You posted something that has me worried. What’s going on?

●      I know you’re going through a lot. How can I support you?

●      What’s been on your mind lately? Let’s talk about it.

●      It’s okay to not be okay. I’m always here for you.

 As your starting point for help, the Mental Health Recovery Board Serving Warren and Clinton Counties (MHRBWCC) offers helpful mental health resources on our Prevention & Resources Page.

 

Need Help Now?

If your friend is in immediate distress or mentions thoughts of self-harm, encourage them to contact a crisis hotline or seek professional help right away.

 Call or text our Crisis Hotline at (877) 695-6333 or use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline.