Sometimes, when someone is going through a tough time, support from friends, family and loved ones can make a real difference. There may also be times when additional support could help.
Knowing how to raise the topic can feel uncomfortable. You may worry about saying the wrong thing, upsetting the person, or being seen as pushy.
The good news is that you don’t need to have all the answers. Often, the most helpful thing you can do is start a caring conversation and help someone explore their options.
Everyone experiences challenges differently. There is no single point at which someone should seek support.
However, professional support may be worth considering if someone:
Support isn’t only for times of crisis. Many people find that getting help early can prevent problems from becoming more difficult to manage.
Learn more about the signs that someone may need support here.
Talking about support can feel sensitive. It can help to approach the conversation with care, curiosity and respect.
Try to:
Examples of what you might say:
“You’ve seemed under a lot of pressure lately. Have you thought about talking to someone about how you’re feeling?”
“You’ve seemed under a lot of pressure lately. Have you thought about talking to someone about how you’re feeling?”
“Would it be helpful if we looked at some support options together?”
Sometimes people may be relieved that someone has noticed and cared enough to ask.
It can be frustrating or worrying when someone is reluctant to seek support.
There are many reasons why a person may hesitate. They may:
It is important to remember that you cannot force someone to seek support.
Instead, try to:
Sometimes it can take several conversations before someone feels ready to reach out.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to support.
Different people feel comfortable with different kinds of help. Exploring a range of options can make support feel less overwhelming.
Support might include:
Sometimes the first step is simply opening up to a friend, family member, colleague, elder, mentor or community leader.
Speaking with someone who has been through a similar experience can help people feel understood and less alone.
Joining a group, club, sporting team, volunteering opportunity or community activity can strengthen connection and reduce isolation.
Many people prefer to learn more about their situation before reaching out for support. Reliable information can help them understand what they are experiencing and what support is available.
This may include speaking with a GP, counsellor, psychologist, social worker or other qualified professional.
If someone is in immediate danger, talking about suicide, or you are concerned for their safety, seek urgent support from emergency or crisis services.
You can find a list of support services here.
Not everyone will be ready to seek support straight away.
What’s most important is helping the person feel heard, respected and supported while they consider their options.
You don’t need to convince them or solve their problems. Simply showing care, staying connected and helping them explore support can make a meaningful difference.
You are not responsible for fixing someone else’s challenges.
Your role is to listen, encourage and support.
A conversation that helps someone take even one small step towards support can have a lasting impact.
If you’re not sure how to start, you could say:
“I care about you, and I’ve noticed things seem tough at the moment. Have you thought about what support might help?”
“You don’t have to figure everything out today, but we could look at some options together if you’d like.”
Sometimes knowing they don’t have to do it alone is exactly what a person needs to hear.
