If you’re too embarrassed to talk to someone who seems unwell, get over it. Everyone needs support now and then, so suck it up and prove you really are a mate. Rest assured, it’s a lot easier than you think.
Just say something like, “You don’t seem to be yourself at the moment”, then tell them what you’ve noticed. If they open up, don’t panic because you don’t have to fix them. Turn into a big set of ears and listen.
Once they seem finished ask them is there something you can do to help them or whether they might want to talk to the local doctor. It’s just a conversation.
How can I help you?” might just be enough to help a friend get something off their chest. Or even save their life.
Here is brilliant idea from Movember, if you’d like to practise having a conversation with a mate:
https://conversations.movember.com/en/
Here are few more from Think Mental Health in Western Australia:
And here are even more from the Kings of Conversations, RU OK?
Also, never forget that Lifeline are happy to talk to you about your mate too. Just call 13 11 14
Mental Health on Tap 