How to Deal With Drama

If your friend turns every situation into a crisis or suffers a major meltdown at the slightest setback, she may be turning into a drama queen. Deal with the catastrophes--big and small--in a way that gives her support but maintains your sanity.

Instructions

1. Determine if the drama is the result of a serious problem or if your friend is just prone to overreacting.

2. Ignore it or nod along sympathetically if you're sure she's being melodramatic. Attempting to talk her out of her mood may make her angry with you. Try to change the subject and discuss something that you know will put her in a better state of mind.

3. Take her seriously and offer support if she's going through a real crisis at home, school or work. Urge her to discuss the situation with a parent, relative, teacher or guidance counselor.

4. Talk to a teacher, counselor or boss if the drama between friends turns into bullying or involves other destructive behavior.

5. Discuss the issue face to face if friends have turned something you've said into fodder for drama. Gather all of the parties involved to discuss the problem at the same time to avoid a "he said, she said" situation. Clear the air with friends who have allegedly said something hurtful about you if you're unable to let it go.

6. Make an excuse to leave if your friend's ranting and complaining is preventing you from studying or finishing your work.

Tips & Warnings

• Realistically consider your actions and reactions if you're the one known as a drama queen. You'll become "the one who cried wolf" if you're constantly exaggerating and no one else will support and help you when you truly need it.