We all have friends who sometimes don’t seem quite like themselves. Maybe they’ve stopped texting as much, look tired, or seem kind of “off.” If you think your friend might be struggling with their mental health, you might wonder what to do or say. The good news is, you don’t need to be a therapist or have all the answers. Just being there can make a huge difference.
Here’s how to be an awesome mental health buddy without stressing about it:

1. Listen, No Judgment Allowed
One of the best things you can do is listen, really listen. Let your friend talk without interrupting or trying to fix everything. Sometimes all they need is someone who hears them and won’t judge. So, put down your phone, make eye contact, and just be present. It’s amazing how powerful that can be.

2. Send Check-In Messages That Matter
You don’t have to wait for your friend to call you. Sometimes a quick message like, “Hey, just wanted to check in. How are you doing?” can remind them they’re not alone. Even a silly meme or funny GIF can brighten their day and show you care.

3. Suggest Getting Help Gently
If your friend is struggling, encourage them to talk to a counsellor, doctor, or someone trained to help. You can say things like, “I care about you, and I think talking to someone might really help.” Remember, you’re not the fixer, you’re the friend who supports.

4. Be Patient
Mental health is not a sprint; it’s more like a marathon with lots of twists and turns. Your friend might have good days and bad days. Stick around, keep checking in, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t improve overnight.

5. Take Care of Number One, That’s You
Supporting a friend can be tough, so don’t forget to look after yourself too. It’s okay to take breaks and say no when you need to. Make sure you’re doing things that help you relax and recharge, like hanging out with other friends, watching a show, or just taking some quiet time. Remember, you can’t help others well if you’re running on empty.

6. Know When It’s Time to Get Serious
If your friend talks about hurting themselves or feeling hopeless all the time, it’s important to take it seriously. Help them find immediate support, like a trusted adult or a mental health professional. You can also encourage them to call a helpline, like MANI’s helpline (08091116264). You don’t have to handle this alone.

7. Celebrate the Small Wins
When your friend opens up, makes progress, or just gets through a tough day, celebrate that. Even small victories matter, and letting them know you notice can boost their confidence.

At the end of the day, being a supportive friend means showing up with kindness, patience, and love. You don’t have to be perfect, just real.