03/26/2026
About 1 in 5 teens has a diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition, which means someone in your friend group could be struggling right now, even if they seem fine.
Being a good friend starts with listening without trying to fix anything. Hear them out and let them know you are glad they told you.
If something feels off, trust your gut. Sudden changes in mood, pulling away from friends, or any talk of hopelessness are signs worth taking seriously.
You are not a trained professional, and you are not supposed to carry this alone either. If a friend says something that scares you, tell a trusted adult. A counselor, parent, or teacher can help, and getting them involved is one of the most caring things you can do.