How Do I Approach A Friend Or Family Member Who Needs Help? - Catholic-Link

Imagine it’s Christmas Day. Your family is gathered around the dinner table—laughter, stories, the clatter of silverware on plates. But your sister isn’t joining in. She has just returned home from college out of state. You notice how quiet she is, detached from the conversation, pushing tiny pieces of food around her plate but not eating. And she’s visibly thinner than the last time you saw her.
Or picture yourself hanging out with your friends in a public setting, and you notice one particular friend who’s displaying characteristics of someone in a moment of intense social anxiety. They’re nervous around everyone, unable to make and sustain eye contact. Their heart rate is elevated, and sweat begins forming on their brow. You see them tapping their fingers and feet, and looking around for a possible exit strategy.
Maybe it’s your mom. She’s been withdrawing lately. Her smile is rare, her laughter absent. She gets through the day, doing what’s expected, but the light that once …