When is it best to tell and when is it best to keep quiet?  The only thing that anyone knows for sure is that when a friend’s mental or physical health is in danger, it is always best to tell.  But, what are the consequences of telling a secret in other situations?  Is the cost of losing trust or even a friend worth the benefit of getting something out in the open?

There are times in everyone’s life when secrets should be told rather than kept.

If you wisely chose “telling”, your friend can get the professional help to control the maladaptive behavior rather than letting it control his or her life.

Even though the friendship may suffer, don’t be sorry about getting your friend help. Hopefully, that friend would do the same for you. It is very hard to ‘tell’ on your best friend, right? Well, always remember this: You are a true friend because you helped save a life.

You are not alone in being scared to reveal a secret. Many people agonize over the same question, “Should I tell?” but if it means helping a friend, then that is being a good role model to other friends who might also be scared to speak up.