You don’t have to be a psychologist to start a conversation with someone who isn’t traveling well. Just try saying, “You don’t seem to be quite yourself at the moment. How can I help you mate?”
It doesn’t matter that you’re not an expert because you don’t have to fix them. You just have to be there and listen. Don’t talk about your own experiences or start offering advice, just listen.
Try not ask a whole lot of questions. Just encourage them to keep talking with a few “uh huhs”, nods, and maybe even a “Tell me more mate.” And when they’re finished, maybe just suggest they see their local doctor or ring a helpline.
It’s just a conversation, so give it a shot.
For some excellent advice on the how, when, and why of having a conversation visit RUOK?:
https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask
Lifeline also have some great info at:
https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/i-m-worried-about-someone/
If you you’d prefer to talk directly with someone, you can ring:
MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78
Or for people under 25, you can make a booking to speak to a counsellor by calling headspace on 1800 650 890 or visiting:
https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/connect-with-us/
Mental Health on Tap 