If you choose to respond directly, have a think about how you want to reach out to them – it might be online, over the phone or face to face.
Pick the way of communicating that you feel most comfortable with, and which fits the relationship you have with the person, and the situation.
You could also ask them if and how they’d like to have a conversation and see what suits them.
If you decide to have a conversation, here are some tips:
Start by acknowledging their feelings, and tell them why you’re worried about them.
Tell them that you care about them and that you want to help.
Let them talk through their thoughts, feelings and experiences in their own words.
Try to avoid:
Responding with judgement or assumptions.
Comparing their distress to something bigger
Accusing them of lying or attention-seeking
Making jokes, or making light of how they’re feeling.
Finally, to end the conversation, you can:
Encourage them to find professional help or call a helpline like Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), 13YARN (13 92 76), or QLife (1800 184 527).
If you feel comfortable doing so, follow up and check in with them later to see how they’re doing
After the conversation, make sure to look after yourself. Reach out for support, and do an activity to help you feel calm and safe. |