Friend Problems: If you have a friend in need

Friend Problems: Helping a friend

Are you worried about a friend who isn't eating? A friend who is smoking or drinking? Or maybe a friend who is having trouble at home? You can listen and give advice, but your friend's problems may be more than you can handle alone. Don't be afraid to tell a trusted adult, such as a parent/guardian, teacher, or school nurse. Even though your friend may get mad at you for telling an adult, it is the only way to protect your friend's health.

If you think a friend may have an eating disorder, read "How to Help a Friend (PDF 106KB)."

If you have a friend who smokes, help him or her quit. Send your friend to Straight Talk About Smoking

If you think a friend may have an alcohol or drug problem, find out how you can help. See this link: Alcohol

If a friend is being abused at home, give him or her the number for the 24-hour Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453).

If a friend is being hurt by someone he or she is dating, give your friend the number for the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TDD).

If a friend is talking about suicide, you must tell a trusted adult right away. You can also give your friend the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

If a friend is talking about hurting someone else, you must tell a trusted adult right away.

If a friend is in trouble in other ways, the Youth Crisis Hotline at 1-800-HIT-HOME (448-4663) can help.