Life can get busy, but staying connected matters—especially for those who may not ask for help when they’re struggling.
There are some people who could really use a check-in, even if they don’t always show it. That doesn’t mean you need to drop everything to be at their beck and call, or even plan to hang out several times a week. Just a quick text or call can make all the difference to some people, so it’s worth the effort. Here are just a few who might need that extra call or message.
1. The new parent adjusting to life changes
Becoming a parent is exciting, but it’s also exhausting and full of new challenges. New parents can often feel isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure, even if they put on a brave face. Checking in to offer a listening ear or a little support can mean the world to them.
2. The friend who’s going through a breakup
Even the strongest people can feel completely thrown off by a breakup. They may act like they’re fine or dive into distractions, but the emotional toll can linger. Reaching out shows them that they’re not alone and have support as they heal and move forward.
3. The person who just moved to a new place
Moving to a new town, city, or country can feel exciting, but it also means leaving behind familiar people and routines. Settling in takes time, and new connections don’t happen overnight. A simple message can help them feel grounded and give them a comforting piece of “home.”
4. The friend who recently lost a loved one
Grief doesn’t follow a timetable, and it can last much longer than people expect. Checking in on someone who’s lost someone close, even months later, lets them know you remember and care. They may need someone to talk to, even if they seem to be coping outwardly.
5. The family member dealing with health issues
Physical and mental health challenges can be tough to handle alone, especially when they’re ongoing. Someone dealing with health problems may not always reach out, but knowing people care can be uplifting. Your check-in can remind them they don’t have to face it all alone.
6. The friend with a high-stress job
Work stress can weigh people down, and those in high-pressure jobs can feel burned out quickly. They might keep pushing through, but the stress doesn’t disappear when they leave work. Reaching out to offer support, or just some distraction, can give them a moment to breathe.
7. The single friend in a social circle of couples
Being the single friend in a group of couples can feel isolating, even if they seem happy and content. Sometimes they may feel left out or disconnected from group activities. A little one-on-one time or a check-in shows you’re there for them, regardless of their relationship status.
8. The person who lives far from family
Being away from family, especially during holidays or tough times, can feel lonely. They might not express it, but missing out on family gatherings and support can be hard. Checking in helps them feel remembered and connected, even from miles away.
9. The friend who’s always the “strong one”
We all have that friend who’s always there for everyone else, no matter what. But even the strong ones need support, though they rarely ask for it. Checking in reminds them that they’re allowed to lean on other people too, and that they don’t always have to be the rock.
10. The person who’s self-employed or freelancing
Freelancing and self-employment can be liberating, but also isolating and uncertain. They don’t have the same day-to-day social network or job security that comes with traditional work. Reaching out shows that you’re thinking of them and acknowledges the unique challenges they may face.
11. The introverted friend who doesn’t reach out often
Introverts may enjoy their alone time, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need connection. They might not initiate contact, but a simple check-in lets them know you value their friendship. Just because they’re quiet doesn’t mean they don’t want to hear from you.
12. The friend who recently started a big project
Big projects, whether personal or professional, can be consuming and stressful. Starting something new often comes with a mix of excitement and overwhelm. A check-in can help them feel supported and show that you’re rooting for them as they take on their latest challenge.
13. The person navigating a major life transition
Whether it’s a career change, retirement, or adjusting to an empty nest, major life transitions bring a lot of change and uncertainty. Reaching out during these times helps them feel supported and reminds them that they don’t have to navigate big changes alone.
14. The friend who’s always “fine”
Some people always say they’re “fine,” even when they’re struggling inside. They might not share openly, but they’ll appreciate knowing someone’s thinking of them. A check-in can be a gentle reminder that it’s okay to share what they’re really feeling when they’re ready.
