I am worried about someone I know

The exceptional pressure that health and care staff have been for the last few years may go largely unnoticed to some, but if you notice a friend, family or colleague struggling, see some of our simple advice below and our resources page for more support.

Let them know you are there

It’s important to let the person you are worried about know that you are there for them and either simply thinking of them or available to talk. By opening the lines of communication with them and checking in it lets them know they have somewhere to turn to. You can do this via telephone, video message or even a simple text.

Listen

If they do decide to open up and talk to you, it’s important for you to know that it’s not up to you to fix things for them. You’re not an expert and can’t always solve people’s problems, but by simply listening you can help them manage how they are feeling.

Remain in touch

Be sure to keep the lines of communication open. If they don’t respond initially, try again, it might just not have been the right time for them. If they do engage and you’re worried that they aren’t sharing how they really feel, don’t be afraid to ask again. Sometimes people need an extra chance to open up.

Encourage action where needed

If you feel they could do with further support and advice encourage them to contact our team. Everything is confidential and we’ll be able to offer the right advice and support to suit them.

Supporting families, children and young people

Please see our family support pages for more information.