Friendships

Good mates are there for you in good times and bad, and are often useful when you’re bored on a Sunday. It’s a good thing to remember, though, that not every friend is the right friend for you. Learn how to maintain your good friendships, work through a bad friendship and deal with the tough times.

young man wearing green rugby uniform in locker room holding sign that says banter

When does banter go too far?

We spoke with the guys at Randwick Rugby about the banter that goes on in the team and locker room. Hear what they have to say about joking around, and when it goes too far.

Loserfruit's guide to being a good friend online

It's a bit different maintaining healthy friendships when everyone's online. Thankfully, Loserfruit explains it all in this instructional VHS tape.

5 ways to give compliments that aren't about a person's looks

Here’s how you can give people meaningful compliments that don’t reinforce ideas about how they’re meant to look.

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5 ways you can call out your mates for sexist behaviour

If you're tired of your mates saying weird stuff about women, here are a few ways you can encourage them to do better.

Life lessons from 4 Aussie animals

Aussie animals aren't just adorable, they're also resilient, empathetic, and very savvy. Here's what they have to teach us about life.

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How to help and support a suicidal friend

If someone you know is at risk of suicide, watch our video on how to support them and help them stay safe.

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4 steps for coping with changing friendships

We chatted to a bunch of young people on the ReachOut Forums about how they cope with changing friendships. Get some of their top tips.

What to do when feeling lonely: 11 helpful tips

Loneliness can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime. You can be in a room crowded with people and still feel alone.

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Darren's story: Team mates to dream mates

Darren reflects on how playing a team sport helped him to get fit, cope with anxiety and find his community.

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How Alice and Rebecca's relationship has changed over the years

Alice reflects on her friendship with Rebecca and how it's changed and affected her throughout her life.

Why it’s okay to have a small friendship group

Angel talks about how why she loves having a small, close squad, and why she appreciates them the way they are.

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How to make friends at school

Having a solid squad can make those long school days way more bearable. Check out our tips for making lasting friends at school.

7 different friends you'll have in your life

There are many different types of friends you'll make in your life. Here's why you should appreciate and value them.

Rugby League legend, Joe Williams talks about ways to create a safe place for others to ask for help

Former Rugby League legend Joe Williams and Justin Tall share their story about how to get support in tough times.

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The Mate Breakup: 6 ways to make sure you’re okay when a friendship ends

Falling out with a friend can be pretty gutting. Check out our top tips for making it through a mate breakup.

How to tell your friend they've hurt you

Talking to your friend about how they've hurt you, or about other friendship issues, can be tricky. Check out these tips to get you started.

What makes a good friend?

Figure out what makes a good friend, and learn how you can be there for your friends when they need you most.

How Josh and Nathan keep the bromance alive

Josh and Nathan chat about how they stayed good mates after Nathan left school to work full-time.

Friendmas is the new Christmas

Friendmas could be your new favourite holiday. Celebrate Christmas with your chosen family - your friends.

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Dealing with a toxic friendship

It’s not always easy to know where you stand in a friendship, but there are ways to spot when it’s no good.

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What is peer pressure?

Making good mates is important, but sometimes trying to fit in with a group can turn sour.

3 ways to end a toxic friendship

Dealing with a toxic friendship can really suck, and it’s hard to find a way out, but there are strategies that you can try.

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How to ask a friend if they're okay

When you're worried about someone, sometimes the best thing you can do is listen and let them know you're there for them.

How to make friends and meet new people

Making new friends isn't always easy. We've out together a handy guide on how to meet new people and rebuild your friendship crew.

Life with a chosen family

Andrew shares what his chosen family at Bankstown Poetry Slam means to him.

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A guide to conquering social awkwardness

It’s pretty common to feel socially awkward at times. Striking up chat with strangers, testing out your banter, or going on a first date can all be really nerve-wracking and leave you feeling super awkward!

9 things not to say or do when meeting someone new

The ReachOut.com crew tries hard to keep its cool, but sometimes we just fail.

Friendships and exam stress: 5 tips for keeping things positive

Is study stress affecting your friendships? Discover our 5 practical tips for maintaining strong friendships during exam season.