Q&A for How to Console an Upset Friend

Find out why your friend is feeling upset first. Then, say something supportive and empathetic, like "I understand that you are upset."

Accept your mistake. Yes, if they are very angry at you then maybe, then there is no time for reasoning and console instead. If he/she is your best friend, they are likely to quickly understand and make up with you. But, if they don't, just try convincing them, that you'll not do what you did twice and showing them as much love and trying to make them laugh. They will eventually come around, if its a genuine apology from your side.

Let your friend know you are there for him and ask if he wants to spend time together. Don't push him to tell you what is wrong. Just volunteer to hang out and have fun together.

The same way you would if you were the same gender, you are no different. They still need a friend.

It's not going to be okay if they continue on with the toxic relationship, and it would be wrong to say that. You need to encourage them to get out of that relationship/situation. You can tell them that they will get out of this and will be okay, and that you are there to help and support them.

Even if you can't be there physically, a nice Skype chat can help. Still use eye contact and the other conversation methods depicted here. Even knowing somebody is willing/wanting to help means more than if you're not doing anything.

Being upset and knowing why are two different things. Someone could be upset because of a loss, or because of a fear, for example. But the way to console people is the same. Listen, hug, be there, provide some calm and comfort. Even if he doesn't know why he's upset, it's still the same method.

Tell your friend that you are there for her when she is ready to talk. If you are concerned there is a major problem, discreetly ask a guidance counselor or trusted adult to check in with your friend and make sure she is okay.

Just listening to your friend. If she is are crying, don't tell her to stop crying. Just hold her and rub her back. If she starts to settle down, try cracking a joke.

You should first try politely asking about the matter. If he sees you as good friend, then he will share his problem, it is up to him.

Give her some time and space. She may tell you on her own or you may never know what is bothering her. She could have a headache or not feel particularly peachy. She might be angry at a different person or have had a horrible day. Let her deal with whatever it is her own way.

Look through this article on wikiHow for advice on how to help your friend with a bully.

It is good for your friend to know that you are there for them. You can say things like, "I am here to help" or just say "I am here for you."

Actions speak louder than words, so even if you can't say the right thing, you can always show them you are there for them.

Commiserate with her: let her know you understand what she's going through and are there to listen. Then, advise her as best you can. You might suggest that she approach this friend and talk about how she's feeling.

If your "friend" is upsetting you that much, it's probably a good idea to spend some time apart. Tell her that she has hurt your feelings and you need some space.

Let them vent, be there and listen really carefully. Don't try to solve the problem and try to distract them, but do not necessarily make them laugh. A long time to recover may be needed.

Get both of their stories to see what the issue is, most of the time it's miscommunication. Suggest to both of them that they try to talk it out with the other person. Don't take sides, and don't allow yourself to get too wrapped up in their drama. You can be there to listen to both of them, but they will ultimately have to work things out for themselves.

Well, your friend is obviously upset and may need some time to him/herself. Of course, don't pressure them; it would make matters far worse. You might want to try joking with them and trying to make them smile. Otherwise, ask them directly what they find helpful when they're upset.

Tell her that she doesn't need a boyfriend to feel happy, and that people bully her because they are jealous and want to make themselves feel better. A good idea would be to make her something that will make her happy. You could gather all her friends to write something they like about her, and put it into a book. You could do the same thing, except only you write it.

Just be there and listen. Don't try to make your friend laugh, but just talk to your friend about something else. If your friend needs to be left alone, just let your friend do it.

Tell them that it's normal to get angry, and that everybody makes mistakes. If he lashed out at you or somebody else in anger, tell him that he can learn from this experience and try to channel his anger more productively in the future.

Put your arm around him. Ask him directly what could you do to help. If you can't do what he wants you to do to help, ask him if you can do something similar.

Give her some time to cool off. She is family, she will come around.

Just listen and ask what can you do to help. Let the friend know you're there for her and that she's not alone.

Try to encourage her and tell her that there are people out there who love her, and that she is an amazing person. Make her a card or give her a little gift to help her feel extra special.

Be nice to them. If they're not your friend, but they seem to want attention, try to be nice and let them down easily. Say something like, "I hope things get better, I'm sorry, I have to go."

Dont follow this person around and pester him. Just give him space -- when he's ready to talk, he'll let you know. Aside from that, pray for your friend. God knows what he needs.

He might need some alone time. Check up on him later, or tell him you're available if he needs to talk, and he will reach out to you when he's ready.

Talk to an adult, a parent or a teacher, and let them know what is going on.