Find Help Now Help a Friend Check Yourself Fight The Stigma Videos PSAs
Topics: Depression Bipolar Suicide Eating Disorders Anxiety Stress Alcohol And Drugs Cutting

If you had symptoms of physical pain, you’d ask for help. But, anxiety, depression and other forms of emotional pain can be more complicated. Sometimes part of the problem is being unable or unwilling to recognize that there is a problem at all. Fortunately, friends are often in a good position to recognize the first signs of trouble.

If you notice any of the following in yourself or a friend, it’s usually a good indication that you’re dealing with something more difficult than the usual, everyday stress:

  • Feelings of hopelessness or being trapped
  • Impulsive, reckless behavior
  • Uncontrollable anger or craving for revenge
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • No appetite or increased appetite
  • No interest in activities
  • Insomnia or increased sleeping
  • Anxiety and agitation
  • Social withdrawal
  • Fatigue
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Dramatic mood swings
  • Sense that life has no purpose
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Depressed mood
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Of course, it’s hard to get a good, objective perspective on our own thoughts and feelings. One thing that can help is taking this anonymous screening, either for yourself or a friend. Answering this simple series of questions can provide some valuable insight into your thoughts, feelings and behaviors.


If a friend has a problem, it’s easy to feel helpless and confused. Don’t try to deal with the situation alone, even if your friend wants to swear you to secrecy. Helping them is much easier if you have a little help from other friends, family or professionals.


You can also make things easier by just being a good friend. Be direct and honest. Encourage getting help without sitting in judgment, acting shocked or suggesting that you have all the answers. Don’t be skeptical or dismissive. And – above all – be available and listen.

If you feel like your efforts to help are failing or your friend isn’t accepting your support, don’t give up. Keep asking your friend what he or she needs. Recognize that you might not understand what they’re going through. If a friend or classmate seems to be in crisis, don’t be afraid to contact a parent or someone on campus and express your concern. If you or anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 1-800-273-TALK or 9-1-1 immediately.


Helping a friend, partner, or family member who is struggling with a mental health problem can take its toll on your health as well. Recognize your own personal limits and be aware of your own needs for staying healthy. Provide whatever support you can, but realize that only a mental health professional can lead the treatment process. If you find that helping your friend is affecting your health and well-being, either take a step back, or seek professional help yourself.


Sometimes the hardest part is realizing there is a problem. Once you do that, there are plenty of dedicated professionals who can help. Remember, these issues are a lot more common – and treatable – than people realize. Check out a detailed list of resources where you can get help and support. Find help now.

Find Help On Campus

Click here to find resources on your campus.

Half Of Us
To exert control in her life as the challenges of college mount, Ava barely eats, isolating herself.