Back to SLICE overview
E
Encourage Support

Sometimes what someone's going through needs more than a good mate and a long walk. That's OK. It's no reflection on you or them.

Suggesting professional help can feel uncomfortable. There's a worry it might come across as "this is too much for me" or "something's really wrong with you." Most of the time, though, it just sounds like someone who cares pointing out that more support exists. How you frame it helps.

When it might be worth raising
  • What they're dealing with has been going on for a while and the weight of it seems to be growing.
  • They seem stuck. Same feelings, same patterns, no relief.
  • They've mentioned feeling hopeless, or like nothing is going to change.
  • You're starting to feel out of your depth. That's a sign you're paying attention, not doing something wrong.
  • They've said something about hurting themselves. If so, skip to the crisis section below.
    • How to bring it up

    You're floating an idea, not delivering a verdict.

    • "Have you thought about talking to someone who does this stuff professionally?"
    • "A therapist could give you a proper space to work through this. Might be worth a look."
    • "If you ever want help finding someone, I'm happy to look into it with you."

    Framing it as normal and practical helps. Like seeing a physio for a dodgy knee. Except for your head. And with slightly fewer resistance bands.

    If they push back

    "I'm fine, honestly." - "Fair enough. And if that changes, the option's there."

    "I can handle it myself." - "I know you can. This would just be extra support while you do."

    "That's not for me." - "OK. What would feel helpful right now?"

    Pushback is normal. It rarely means the door is closed for good. Sometimes the idea just needs time to land.

    Practical things you can do

    The gap between "I should probably talk to someone" and actually booking an appointment can feel enormous. Offer to help with a specific step: looking up GPs or therapists together, sitting with them while they make a call, or sending them a link to NHS self-referral.

    Specific offers tend to land better than open-ended ones. "Want me to find some options near you?" is easier to say yes to than "let me know if you need anything."

    If they're in crisis

    If someone mentions wanting to hurt themselves, or something they've said genuinely worries you, this goes beyond the kind of support a friend can offer.

    Stay with them. Take what they're saying seriously. And help them connect with someone who can help right now.

    "I'm really glad you told me. Can we get in touch with someone together?"

    Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
    ‍Text SHOUT: Text "SHOUT" to 85258

    If you believe there's an immediate risk to their safety, call 999.

    👉 More crisis resources on our Get Help page.

    Looking after yourself

    Supporting someone through a difficult time takes energy, and it can build up quietly. If you're starting to feel drained, flat, or like you're carrying their stuff on top of your own, that matters. Looking after yourself is part of being able to keep showing up.

    Complete Guide
    Head back to the SLICE overview.
    Conversation Starters
    Check out some opening lines for you to try.

    Looking for support?

    If you’re looking for emergency information, crisis support or trusted mental health advice (for yourself or someone you care about) our Get Help section is ready when you are.
    Get help