Q: Recently, my best friend started hanging out with a new group of people. It wasn’t a big deal at first, but now we’re hanging out less and less, and she has started acting really weird. I didn’t want to say anything, but she is dressing differently, skipping class and failing school. I have tried talking to her, but she just walks away and gets mad at me. I don’t know how to help her without pushing her away.                    —Ellie, 18

Monique's Advice: I'm sorry that your best friend has taken such a sharp turn. I'm concerned for her, but I'm also concerned for you. Be careful not to become influenced by her in order to save the friendship. It's good that you told her how you feel. Down the road, she'll be grateful that someone told her the truth. If she really isn't open to listening to you, you may need to give her some space. If you think she may be doing drugs or something that could truly hurt her, consider telling her parents. You will most likely lose the friendship, but you could save her life. If it's not that serious, maybe it's just a phase and if you let it play out, it's possible she'll come around.