Helping a friend who feels down
![Two kids in school uniform, one sitting hugging his knees upset Two kids in school uniform, one sitting hugging his knees upset](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-01.png)
How do I know if my friend needs help?
You might notice your friend is by themselves a lot. Or maybe they have been really emotional - getting angry, sad or crying a lot. Maybe they're just not acting like themselves.
![Two kids sitting in a park, one upset crying and the other comforting her Two kids sitting in a park, one upset crying and the other comforting her](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-02.png)
Things you can do to help out
Letting your friend know that you are there to listen and be there for them is a big help!
Be ready to listen to how they are feeling.
![Child and adult talking together on couch Child and adult talking together on couch](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-06.png)
Suggest that they talk to an adult
It's not up to you to fix things for your friend. Let them know there are people they can talk to. This might be a trusted teacher, school counsellor or even Kids Helpline!
![Two kids around a campfire with an adult talking about their problems Two kids around a campfire with an adult talking about their problems](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-04.png)
Go with them to talk to someone
If they're too scared or worried to do it alone, maybe you can go with them to talk to someone. It might help them feel safer to open up.
![Two kids on skateboards in a park having fun Two kids on skateboards in a park having fun](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-03.png)
Help them take their mind off it
Make plans to hang out together and have some fun. Play a game, kick a ball around, listen to music together or watch some funny videos! This can help them take their mind off what's upsetting them.
![A variety of adults who can support kids such as parent, Kids Helpline counsellor, teacher, nurse, doctor A variety of adults who can support kids such as parent, Kids Helpline counsellor, teacher, nurse, doctor](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Helping%20a%20friend-07.png)
Remember to take care of yourself!
Remember to talk about your own feelings with someone you trust. If you are worried about a friend, it's ok to talk about it with a parent, teacher or even a counsellor!