How can you help a friend take therapy?

Are you concerned about a friend’s behavior or emotional state? Are you wondering if there is anything you can do to help? Yes, you can! Sometimes, just talking to your friend openly about your concerns can help. It might, though, be difficult to know what to say—or it might become clear that talking will not be enough. At such times, being a good friend might involve stepping beyond the usual boundaries of your friendship. This might mean having a more serious conversation than you are used to having. It might mean saying things you know your friend does not want to hear. It might even mean saying or doing something that your friend, at least initially, will resent. It might risk your friendship, and still be the right thing to do. Firstly, never be embarrassed to say that you are concerned about them.
Never assume they have stopped socializing, or are skipping classes because they want it that way. You may know when your friend needs help when you see them withdrawing from friends or activities, chronically missing classes, Major sleep or appetite change, deteriorating hygiene and overall self-care, declining academic performance, irritability, frequent arguments and conflicts, Binge eating or drug use and Self-injurious behavior and etc. There might expression of thoughts about death or suicide as well. Therefore, to help your friend take therapy, you will have to speak up and find or make time, and express your concerns. It shows you care! Without judging your friend, express how  you  feel. Be specific: “I’m concerned about your behavior lately.” “I’m worried about how sad you seem.” “I want to be able to offer you my support. ”Once you’ve expressed your feelings, encourage your friend to talk, then they will really talk and you have to listen. Reflect back on what you are hearing. Help clarify the problem, for now and in the future. Help your friend look for ways forward, and ways you can be helpful. Urge your friend to talk to other friends and family, and to try some of the counseling centers and therapists. If they’re short on money, you can always help them. The Counseling Center is the ideal place to start. You may not feel qualified to help your friend with their problems. Learn about resources on campus such as counseling, health services, mentoring, and spiritual guidance. You may find better ones in the city. The Counseling Center can educate you about these resources, and guide you in helping your friend. Helping others can be stressful. What, though, if they won’t even try one visit? Then  you  should consider speaking with a counselor, to see what else might be tried. You know, ye duniya bohot choti hai, so try your best to live it as happily as you can. Picture source: Pinterest