With International Friendship Day on July 30, 2024 and students preparing to return to university, it is crucial to be attentive to signs that a friend may be going through a tough time. With concerns about loneliness, being away from home, rising costs, and study stresses, Europe’s leading student accommodation platform, Nido Living, has identified five key signs in friends’ behavior and what to do if you notice them:
- Increased irritability: This could be a sign that they are overwhelmed. They may be taking on more responsibilities than they can handle.
- Cancelling or avoiding plans: This is especially concerning if it is out of character for them.
- Negative self-talk: This may include self-criticism about their appearance or abilities, such as their performance in exams.
- Changes in social media usage: They may be posting more or less than usual, or their content may have become worrisome or critical. They may also have suddenly stopped posting.
- Increase in alcohol or substance use: This could be a coping mechanism, especially if they start drinking alone or at unusual times of the day.
Dr. Tara Quinn-Cirillo, Nido’s wellness partner, comments: “Being aware of these signs will allow you to be more alert. For students away from home, friendships are crucial. On this International Friendship Day, recognize the warning signs and have the conversation, remembering that you are doing so from a position of care and well-being.”
Ways to approach a worried friend
- Normalize conversations about emotional health: We all face difficulties and it is important to talk about them.
- Remember why you are doing this: Approach the topic from a position of well-being and concern.
- Choose the right time to talk: Find a quiet and private moment to have a sincere conversation.
- If it’s urgent, schedule a time to talk.
- Start simple: Ask “how are you?”
- Listen actively: Show that you are listening and truly hear what they are saying.
- Validate their experiences: Use phrases like “it seems like you are going through a tough time” or “I understand why this worries you.”
- Do not minimize their experiences or try to solve their problems immediately.
- Encourage them to talk to a tutor, doctor, trusted professor, or family.
- Offer your help to seek professional support.
- Stay in touch: Ask if they need anything and spend time with them.
- Do not compare your experiences with theirs: Avoid saying “I know how you feel.”
- Encourage seeking professional help.
Remember, it can be exhausting to support them alone. It is also important to take care of your own well-being and find a proper balance.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
