Active Minds

What to look for

On this page you can read more about signs to notice if you're concerned about yourself or a friend.  Sometimes it is hard to know when help is needed but you should never hesitate to ask for help.  Seeking help is a sign of strength and NEVER a wrong decision.  Knowing what to look for and recognizing 12 signs and symptoms of mental health disorders can help you help yourself and others get important care.

How to help a friend

This page gives tips about helping a friend you may be concerned about.  In addition to 10 suggestions to keep in mind, you can also find conversation starters or questions to ask as well as a chart of ideas worth trying and others worth avoiding.

Where to turn

Here you'll find suggestions about where to go for help as well as other recommended websites for getting more information on mental health, mental illness and helping friends and loved ones.  

Friends made a difference for Emily:

In her freshman year of college at Duke University, Emily began struggling with Depression.  Her friends made a tremendous difference and helped her get through the tough time.  She has this advice...

"If you are sick, please seek help.  Talk to your parents, a friend, a psychologist, ME!  If your friend is suffering, just hold their hand, sit with them while they cry.  Don't expect them not to feel shitty or to just get over it.  It's not that simple.  Be patient, and understand if they just want to be alone.  It's going to take time.

 My friends watch out for me - they pay attention to my eating, my sleeping, how often I cry.  My favorite is when they just pull me aside, look me in the eye, and ask, 'Are you alright?'  It's amazing how such simple words can make you feel so loved."                          To read more of Emily's story, click here.