Question:
Me and my friend have been friends since childhood, we have always had a good relationship, helping each other when things are hard.
Recently, my friend has been acting differently, for example, they have been missing school, avoiding their friends, posting questionable things, and have had changes in their mood. I am starting to get worried for them but they haven't confided in me specifically. I don't want to assume the worst, but I also don't want to ignore the possibility that something is wrong. I want to help, but don't know if they would benefit from my support. I've thought about telling an adult, like a teacher, counsellor, or their parents, but I'm scared they will feel hurt and that it could ruin our friendship. However, if they are struggling with mental health issues, guiding them to find help could be more important than keeping their trust.
Should I confide in an adult and risk our friendship or let them deal with their problems on their own?
Answer:
You can tell their teacher or someone, that can actually help them, and explain to them that they should know this concern that you have, but under no circumstances is it to get back to the other person or even hinted that you said anything. Any professional teacher or counselor will be able to steer the conversation in a way that your friend doesn't think that you said anything to them.
Best wishes
