That message is a familiar one to those of you following our efforts: “Say ‘hello’ to a friend today.”
While many of our Mental Health Monday tips focus on educating yourselves on the importance of mental health or how to improve your mental health, this week we’re encouraging you to look outward, to your friends, and watch for possible signs they may be suffering in silence.
Too often I’ve heard students who have survived a friend’s suicide say “I didn’t know” or “In hindsight, I should have recognized the signs.” And so this week I’m encouraging
And so this week I’m encouraging you to look for the signs and pay attention to your fellow students and friends while in class or out.
Some things to look for:
- Has he or she disassociated from friends?
- Has he or she become lethargic all of a sudden?- Does he or she just want to sleep all day?
- Has he or she started to miss a lot of classes?
- Has he or she lost their passion for their favourite hobbies or sports?
While positive answers to some or all of these questions do not necessarily mean your friend is suffering from depression, it could be a sign they are and it’s certainly worth asking or paying closer attention.
Not sure how to start the conversation? Why not just say “hello”?
https://youtu.be/QpSiIpTzn94