How can I help my friends?

Your friends may be biased and afraid of being shamed about going to the Psychological Counseling Center. Let them know that psychological counseling issues cover a wide range and can be address any kinds of problems (relationship problems, efficient studying techniques, stress, anxiety, depression, etc.). Asking for help is not a weakness; it is a sign of strength.

• Tell your friends that problems don't need to be abnormal or very important to get help.
• Some students can be skeptical about psychological counseling for any reason. Talk about the necessity of psychological counseling but don't force it if he/she doesn't want to go. Leave an open door, and give them time to consider it.
• They can get help from outside the University, if they want; they may not want to get help on campus. The Psychological Counseling Center can make a referral to reliable organizations, if desired.
• Don't forget that therapy is a personal choice; a person has the right to use this choice or not.
• If necessary, remind your friends that Işık University Psychological Counseling Center services are provided for free and confidentially.
• Be sincere in your limits, time, other responsibilities, and willingness to help.
• If necessary, make an appointment by calling when your friend is with you.
• If necessary, make an appointment by calling when your friend is with you.
• If your friend is in a very tense situation, escort him to the Psychological Counseling Center.

Call us if you don't know what to do.