7 ways to reach out to a friend
It can be hard to know what to do when one of our friends is feeling lonely. Here are some top tips to reach out to someone who might need a helping hand.
1. Hang out with them
Just spending time with your friend listening to music, watching a movie or playing a board game can really show that you are someone they can count on.
2. Take time and listen to what they have to say
Let them know you are always there for them and they can talk to you about things that may be bothering them.
3. Small gestures
Maybe your mate is struggling in a class and needs help studying, or maybe they need a hand cleaning their room; offering to help out with small tasks is a great way to show you care.
4. Help them find interests they can do themselves
Being alone once in a while is something we all have to deal with, so reassuring your friend that alone time can be fun is a great thing to do. Help them find something that they love doing – maybe taking pictures, reading or dancing to their favourite music – and encourage them to try it out when they’re by themselves.
5. Check in
No matter how much you love your friend you can’t be with them 24 hours a day, but a phone call, email or text to say hello can go a long way. Just letting them know you are there will help them realise there is always someone close by who is thinking about them.
6. Try new things together
Sometimes when you are feeling lonely you don’t really want to leave the house; inviting your friend to the movies, a sleep-over or even just a walk in the park is a good way to help them get out of a routine.
7. Encourage them to connect with other people
Encouraging your friend to join an after-school club or a local sports team is a great way to help them make new friends and do something they might enjoy!
What are your top tips for reaching out to a friend?
Tell us below!