Talking to someone you are worried about

Choose the moment

Talk privately when you both have time and the person is able to take part. An emergency needs immediate action; a discussion about change can wait until the immediate danger has passed.

Try this approach

• Start with an observation: “You were difficult to wake yesterday, and I felt worried.”
• Ask permission: “Can we talk about how to make things safer?”
• Listen: “What has been going on for you?”
• Offer a choice: “Would you like help finding a service, or someone to go with you?”

Keep the door open and share what you learn

Avoid threats, labels, or debating whether the person is “bad enough” to need help. Try: “I care about you. Would a check-in or help getting to an appointment be useful?” If a conversation goes badly, reflect, correct any harmful wording, and try again when appropriate. Share general safety lessons without exposing someone’s private story.

If you are helping someone

You can express concern while respecting the person’s choices and your own boundaries.

WARN (OTHERS)

After immediate care is covered, share dated advisories or observed concerns. Say what is confirmed and what is uncertain. Protect people’s privacy.

Emergency care comes first. Never share someone’s name, identifying photo or private health details.