How to be a good friend

Be aware

The problem is that as we get older we feel we ought to be able to sort out our own problems, and keep these to ourselves, rather than talking about them. So if one of your best friends suddenly becomes more withdrawn than usual, it might mean that they have a problem, but don't feel they can tell you about it.

Listen
If your best friend wants to tell you about their problem, you have to listen!! In most cases, you can't actually do anything about it, but allowing them to talk about their feelings could help them to work it through.


Wait for the right time
You may be able to get practical information that can help your friend. You probably think you must tell them straightaway - but there's a right time for everything. So you shouldn't force the information on them; instead, wait until they actually for it.


Don't bring it back to you
You don't have to talk about your own experiences to show you understand your friend's problems. If your friend doesn't ask if anything similar has happened to you, you mustn't go on about your own problems, past or present. Remember, the most important thing you can do for your friend is just be there for them!!