For Friends.
Your phone lights up. It’s a text from your friend, and the news is big…
She’s scared, confused, and she told you. This is a critical moment. You’re a good friend for looking up how to help. Here are some of the best ways you can support her right now.
What You Can Do
Just Listen
Before you jump in with advice or a million questions, just let her talk. She needs to be heard more than she needs a plan right this second. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling?” and let her know you’re 100% there to listen.
Help Her Get Facts
She needs a safe, private place to confirm her pregnancy and learn about all her options. Let her know about us. Tell her that Heart Choices offers free, completely confidential pregnancy tests and options counseling. She can get the facts she needs without pressure, judgment, or cost.
Offer to Go With Her
She might be terrified to make the first call or walk in alone. Offering to go with her to an appointment can be a massive relief. We welcome support people! Your presence can give her the courage she needs to take the next step.
Be Her Support
Offer to sit with her if she needs to tell her parents, the baby’s father, or other important people. Just knowing she already has someone on her side can make all the difference.
What to Avoid
Don’t Shame Her
She may already feel guilty, embarrassed, or ashamed. She doesn’t need those same emotions from her friend. Be her safe person. Look for solutions, not problems.
Don’t Pressure Her
This is one of the biggest and most personal decisions she will ever make. You may know what you would do, but this is her life and her choice. Support her as she navigates her decision, even if it’s not the one you would make.
Don’t Ghost Her
She is probably feeling incredibly alone right now. The last thing she needs is to lose her best friend. Reassure her that you are sticking by her, no matter what she decides.
We’re Here for You, Too
It’s a big deal to support a friend through an unplanned pregnancy, and you might have questions, too. We’re here for you.
Please reach out to us with any questions about our free services or how you can best support your friend. We can help you get the information you need to be the best support system she has.