Friend Check-ins

Got a friend that you a worried about? Want to check in to make sure they are ok? Let's talk about how to approach that conversation.

The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention.

STEP 1:

Evaluate your friendship before jumping in.

Are you:

Close with this person?
Are you worried about them?
What do you already know about the situation?

STEP 2:

Shift your questions to be supportive.

Ask how they are feeling
Gently express changes you have noticed in their behavior
Ask un-imposing questions that allow the friend to elaborate in a comfortable setting

STEP 3:

LISTEN! LISTEN! LISTEN!

Listening and acknowledging what your friend is feeling is extremely important!

STEP 4:

How can YOU help?

Ask your friend directly what you can do to support them
Be patient
Reinforce that you care about them
Do not diminish their feelings
Aid them in finding the help they need depending on their situation

IMPORTANT:

DO NOT feel as though you need to solve your friend's problems alone! Ask for support from a trusted adult, especially if you are seriously worried about your friend!