Basics For Supporting Friends

Abstract

The A.S.K. tool, created by Active Minds, is helpful to use when providing support. Whether you are supporting a friend in person or online, remember to A.S.K.: Acknowledge that what your friend is going through must be hard. Let them know that you are there to listen and that their feelings are valid. Support your friend by listening before responding. Repeat back what they’ve shared to check that you understand. Let your friend take the lead in telling you what they need. Ask open- ended questions to learn more about how you can help. Keep in touch by making a plan for reconnecting. This might be in-person, over text, or in a DM. Add a reminder to your calendar to check in with them when you planned to. It is important to remember to take care of your own mental health while being supportive of your friend. You can create healthy boundaries for yourself by figuring out what you have the energy for and what you do not. You can find ways to support your friend that meet both of your needs, especially when you both may be juggling many responsibilities.