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Conversation Starters

Do you know how to reach out to a friend or loved one who may be living with a mental illness?

When you see a friend or a loved one who may be struggling with their mental health, it can be difficult to know what they need. However, a great way to find out is to talk to them about how you can best provide support. If you want to be there for a friend or loved one who may be living with mental illness, be prepared to listen and let them know you care.

It’s important that you provide a safe space for them to share their experience; try not to tell them how they should feel or what they should do. Use one of our conversation starters below to reach out to a friend about their mental health, and by doing so, you can help to reduce stigma around mental illness in your community

I know things have been hard lately; let me know if you want to talk about it. I’m here for you.

I just want you to know I am here for you if you ever need to talk. You’re my friend and I won’t judge you.

You’ve seemed a little down lately and I wanted to see how you are doing.

I know life can feel like a lot sometimes, but if you need someone to talk to, I want you to know I am here.

I haven’t seen you in a while! How have you been?

I noticed you have missed a few days of school, and I just wanted to check in with you and see how you are doing.

I just wanted to say that I am here if you want to talk about anything – Can we get together this week? 

Hey, it seems like you’ve got a lot on your mind lately. How are you?