This is your reminder to pick up the phone and call someone!
When you’re not feeling your shiniest, or you just have a bit on your mind, it can help to talk to a friend.
Utilise the support you have in your life. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, and you don’t have to wait until you reach a crisis point to reach out and connect. As humans, we thrive on that connection.
If the underlying soundtrack of your life is “I should have this figured out,” and think that you don’t want to burden someone else with your “silly” thoughts, think again. Nothing good typically comes from being stuck in that thought pattern – it’s time to climb on out of your head!
Having an open conversation with someone who knows you is guaranteed to leave you feeling so much lighter.
How to reach out to a friend
Reaching out to a friend for help the first time can be nerve-wracking (especially for introverts). Not sure what to say?
Here are a few approaches you can try:
- “Hey friend! “I would love it if you_____”
- “Hey friend, I'd really appreciated your help with _______”
- “Hey friend, When you ___, I feel so much better.”
- “Hey friend, Can you give me a hand with _______?”
- “Hey friend, Can I run _______ by you for a second?”
What to say to a friend who's reaching out to you
Likewise, if you’re on the receiving end of that call, it’s handy to have some framework for the best way to respond:
What to say to a friend who calls you:
- Validate their feelings/thoughts
- Ask questions to encourage more reflection
- Affirm these reflections
- Ask how you can help (be prepared that they may not have a concrete answer to this)
- Let them know they can reach out at any time (ensure this suits your own personal boundaries, and if not suggest they connect with a professional, or another friend).
- Make a plan to see/speak to them next
You are not alone
Remember, if you’re in crisis you can contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 44 for 24-hour support.
