filmed five videos with Seize the Awkward that can be seen on the organization’s website about being vulnerable with oneself and how to open up to friends.
“I got involved with this campaign because I genuinely know what it feels like where I don’t want to open up and I don’t want to talk about it and I don’t tell people, ‘No, I don’t like this.’ ‘This has affected me this way.’ ‘I’m sad.’ ‘I don’t want to do that,'” Megan explains in the clip.
She continues, “I know what it feels like to be in your head and feel like, ‘I can’t talk to anybody about this.’ ‘I don’t want anybody to know. ‘I’m embarrassed about how I feel.’ ”
“So I just want my Hotties to know, or anybody, but specifically my Hotties — I just want my Hotties to know, like, let it out, tell somebody because somebody does care,” she says. “Because if that person cares, they’ll make your day 100% better, and helping you would have made their day better.”
Tips for checking on your friends
- Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a comfortable and private setting to have a conversation. Ensure both you and your friend have enough time to talk without feeling rushed.
- Be Non-Judgmental: Approach the conversation with an open and non-judgmental attitude. Avoid making assumptions or passing judgment about their feelings or experiences.
- Listen Actively: Let your friend speak and express their feelings. Listen attentively, without interrupting, and validate their emotions. Sometimes, people just need someone to vent to.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage them to share by asking open-ended questions like, “How have you been feeling lately?” This can help them open up and express themselves more freely.
- Respect Their Boundaries: Understand that they may not want to talk about their feelings or experiences right away. Respect their boundaries and let them know you’re there whenever they’re ready.
- Show Empathy and Support: Let your friend know you care by expressing empathy and support. Say things like, “I’m here for you,” “You’re not alone,” or “I care about your well-being.”
- Avoid Giving Unsolicited Advice: While you might want to help, refrain from offering advice or solutions unless they specifically ask for it. Sometimes, people just need someone to listen.
- Suggest Professional Help: If you believe their mental health issues are severe or worsening, gently encourage them to seek professional help. Offer to assist them in finding a therapist or counselor if they’re willing.
- Stay Connected: Continue to check in on them regularly, even when they seem to be doing better. Mental health can fluctuate, so consistent support is essential.
- Educate Yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about their specific mental health condition, if applicable. Understanding their experiences can help you be more empathetic and supportive.
- Respect Privacy: Don’t share their personal information or struggles with others without their explicit permission. Respect their privacy and trust.
- Self-Care: Supporting someone with mental health issues can be emotionally taxing. Make sure you’re taking care of your own well-being too. Seek support for yourself if needed.
- Be Patient: Recovery from mental health issues can be a long and nonlinear process. Be patient and understanding, and don’t expect immediate improvements.
- Follow-Up: After initial conversations, follow up periodically to see how they’re doing. This shows that you genuinely care about their well-being.
- Crisis Situations: If you believe your friend is in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, don’t hesitate to contact emergency services or a crisis hotline.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, dial or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support.