I Am Family or a Friend

+94 71 763 9898
shanthimaargam@gmail.com
78/1, 1st Lane, Gothami Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka

+94 71 763 9898
shanthimaargam@gmail.com
78/1, 1st Lane, Gothami Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka

If you notice that someone you care about—whether it’s your child, sibling, or friend—seems to be struggling or going through a tough time, it’s important to know how you can offer support. It can feel overwhelming, but even small steps can make a big difference in helping them feel less alone. Here’s how you can be there for them:

Signs to Watch For

It’s not always easy to know when someone needs help, but there are signs that may indicate your loved one is having a difficult time or may even be at risk of taking their own life. Keep an eye out for changes in their behavior:

Withdrawal from family or friends: They may stop wanting to spend time with others or seem distant.
Different behavior: You may notice they’re acting out of character, whether it’s through mood swings, anger, or unusual sadness.
Loss of interest: If they no longer seem to care about activities or hobbies they once enjoyed, this could be a sign.
Talking about feeling hopeless or like they’re a burden: These types of statements should always be taken seriously.

If you notice these signs, it’s important to act. The earlier you reach out, the more you can help.

What to Do

If you believe someone is struggling, here’s how you can approach the situation:

Talk to them
Start by reaching out and letting them know you’re there for them. It can be as simple as saying, “I’ve noticed you seem a bit down lately. Is everything okay?” This opens the door for them to share how they’re feeling.
Listen without judgment
When they start talking, it’s crucial to listen without judging or jumping in with solutions. Just being there to hear them out can provide them with a lot of comfort.
Reassure them
Let them know that it’s okay to feel the way they do, and remind them that you’re not judging them. Validate their feelings by saying things like, “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. I’m here to help you through this.”
Refer them to services
If they’re ready, encourage them to seek professional help. You can suggest trusted resources like helplines or counseling services. For urgent concerns, these hotlines can be a lifeline:
- Sumithrayo: Call 011 269 2909, 011 269 6666, or 011 268 3555
- CCC Line: Free 24/7 support via 1333

Spend time with them
Even if they don’t want to talk, being physically present and spending time together—whether it’s watching a movie, going for a walk, or simply sitting together—can show them they’re not alone.

You Are Not Alone

It can be difficult to watch someone you care about struggle, but your support can make a significant difference. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need guidance on how to handle the situation. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and together, you can help them find the support they need.