5 ways to rescue a friend that always goes too hard

You know what it’s like. You’ve been counting down to the festival of the summer for the best part of a year but, when you finally make it, there’s that one friend who goes overboard.

Their anticipation hits overdrive, which fuels a few days of wild abandon. Their behaviour affects you and everyone around them; it’s a situation that can actually ruin the whole festival experience. This is what we call getting lost in the festival.

Here are 5 surefire ways to rescue that friend…

TREAT THEM WITH COMPASSION
While it may be extremely frustrating when someone goes off the rails and impacts your experience, criticising them is a road to disaster. Taking time to be gentle, to have empathy and compassion is a good starting point if you want to resolve the situation.

TRY TO FIND OUT WHAT’S CAUSED THE EXCESS
Usually, there will be an underlying issue that’s triggered your friend’s wayward behaviour – especially if it’s out of character. If you can guide them into a conversation, finding out why they’ve gone off the rails can help get to the root of what’s going on.

HELP THEM TO SOBER UP (IF YOU CAN)
Sometimes all you need to do is get your mate to take a break and come to their senses. Find a way to coax them into having a nap, give them lots of water and keep them away from any naughty stuff while they’re in your company.

ESCORT THEM AROUND THE FESTIVAL
If your mate refuses to stay in one place, make it your duty to chaperone them as they navigate the festival. While it might take some work, and affect your festival experience, taking care of a wayward friend is of utmost importance. You never know what damage they could do if left to their own devices.

GET SUPPORT
If you’re really struggling to contain your friend, get support. That could be from other friends at the festival, or even the support staff, if it gets to that point. The bottom line is, their safety is paramount and if they seem to have lost all concern for their own wellbeing, don’t try to deal with things on your own.