What to do when your friend is distressed

Working out what's best

When one of your friends is really upset, it can be a very difficult time. It may also make you feel confused or worried.

It is important that you do what you can to help them, but if the situation makes you feel uncomfortable or distressed, you can encourage them to talk to someone else. Maybe you could suggest your friend talks to a counsellor, doctor or psychologist.

Check out the Who can help you section for more information about how these people can help. The yellow pages or Telstra White Pages should have information in your local area.

You can also check out your local community health centre where they can provide you with help or give you some information about where else you can go.

If your friend tells you something that makes you think that they are not safe, then it is important to talk to someone who can assist you to help your friend.

Ways of helping your friend

Distract your friend

Sometimes taking time out to do something you enjoy can help to take your mind off what is bothering you. You may want to take your friend shopping, watch a video, go to the movies, or go to the beach. You could also organise a game of footy or soccer with a group of friends to help them clear their head.

Be supportive

One of the best things you can do to help your friend is by being supportive. Letting them know you care, and listening to what they have to say may be two ways you can support your friend. Check out the Listening + being open minded fact sheet for more information about this.

Helping your friend work through their feelings

Working through feelings can sometimes make it easier to manage them. You may want to check out the Working through it myself fact sheet for more information. It may help your friend to have a read through this fact sheet also. They may then find it helpful to talk to you about it or work through the stuff by themselves.