![]() | What Family & Friends Can DoAfter all, what are friends and family for?As a friend or family member, you may know more than most, and in many cases, you’re relied on more than anyone else. Everyone is different, in some cases friends are closer than family, and sometimes, family make up a person’s inner circle. If a friend or family member is having trouble, you may be one of the first to know. |
If a friend or family member is struggling, listen, acknowledge their situation and be there for them:
You're often the one parents and caregivers turn to when they feel scared, depressed or overwhelmed. You also may share their moments of joy. You see a lot. Here are ways you can help:
One way to help friends and family is to point them to the right resources when they need information or assistance. Here are local resources that could be helpful to parents you know:
Policies impact every aspect of our lives and you can make a difference.
Sometimes we’re faced with situations that we don’t know how to address and it can be hard to know how to support an individual experiencing abuse, neglect or domestic violence. Learn about this at Lutheran Community Services or the YWCA. You can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.7233 for more information. The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) also has a National Sexual Assault Hotline that you can call 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 800.656.HOPE (4673).