Mental Health Awareness Week: Supporting Friends Through Tough Times
Mental Health Awareness Week is an important reminder that none of us are meant to go through difficult times alone. Many people experience struggles with their mental health at different points in life, whether that’s stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, burnout or simply feeling overwhelmed.
Sometimes the hardest part is reaching out.
As friends, family members, colleagues and parents, we don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. Often, simply being there, listening without judgement and checking in consistently can mean more than we realise.
At Dads Rock, we know how important support networks can be. Feeling connected and understood can have a huge impact on wellbeing, especially for dads and parents who may be juggling work, family life, financial pressures and the everyday challenges that come with parenting.
How You Can Support a Friend
Check in regularly
A simple message saying “How are you really doing?” can open the door to a conversation. Even if someone doesn’t respond straight away, knowing someone cares can make a difference.
Listen without trying to fix everything
You don’t need to solve someone’s problems. Giving them space to talk openly without judgement is often the most helpful thing you can do.
Encourage them to seek support
If a friend is struggling, gently encourage them to speak to their GP, a mental health professional or support service. Remind them that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Be patient
Mental health recovery isn’t linear. Some days may feel easier than others. Try not to pressure someone to “snap out of it” or feel better quickly.
Include them
When people are struggling, they can often withdraw socially. Continuing to invite them along for a walk, a coffee or a catch-up can help them feel connected, even if they say no sometimes.
Look after yourself too
Supporting someone else can be emotionally difficult at times. Make sure you’re also taking care of your own wellbeing and reaching out for support when needed.
Small Actions Matter
Supporting a friend doesn’t always mean having big conversations. Sometimes it’s:
Sending a quick text
Going for a walk together
Offering practical help
Sitting together quietly
Reminding them they’re not alone
Small acts of kindness and consistency can have a lasting impact.
Mental Health and Dads
Many dads experience challenges with their mental health, but stigma can still make it difficult for men to speak openly about how they’re feeling. That’s why spaces where dads feel welcomed, supported and listened to are so important. At Dads Rock, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for dads to connect through groups, workshops, trips and support services across Scotland. Sometimes support starts with a simple conversation.
Remember, you don’t need to be an expert to support someone. Being kind, listening, checking in and reminding someone they matter can go a long way. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out for support.
mental health support
Please note these are mental health services across the UK. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, cannot keep themselves or others safe, or yours or another’s life is at risk, please call 999.
P.S. Dads Rock - Dads Rock Peer Support service, which is the only national service across Scotland that helps new Dads during the perinatal stage (pre-birth up to 1 year old). You’ll be paired up with one of our trained volunteers, who is also a parent themselves, to help guide you, answer any questions and support you through your journey.
Andy’s Man Club - This is a men’s mental health and suicide prevention group that meets every Monday across Scotland.
Samaritans - This is a free mental health service across the UK, that can be reached via phone, email or in-person.
NHS Mental Health Services - This is the official NHS mental health services list, with helpful information and resources.