Tough question. Most cultures have well-defined “norms” about what is acceptable and “normal.” Mental health specialists are trained to make important judgments about just how abnormal a behavior must be before other consequence, such as incarceration or commitment, are required. Sometimes it can be a fine line in a society that places high value on individuality to determine when” eccentric” crosses the line to “undesirable.” In addition, cultures regularly shift in their definitions of what is weird or abnormal. For example, the practice of having various body parts pierced is a popular one with many young Americans but was virtually unheard of twenty years ago. Therefore, many older Americans tend to think the practice is more abnormal than weird whereas many young Americans think it is just weird enough.

No. Your risk for schizophrenia is higher than individuals who do not have schizophrenic relatives, but this is not a sentence. Your risk increases the closer the afflicted relative is to you in blood tie, but even identical twins don’t always show similar mental health problems. Take heart. An elevated risk is not the same as a guarantee that you will suffer the same problems.

You probably should assess whether this is just stress relief talk (“I’m so mad I could just kill myself!”) or whether the tone is considerably less playful. If you think there is a serious threat involved, then you would be a good friend if you respond seriously. Ask about whether this is serious and if there is a plan. If there is, tell your friend that you want to help and arrange to get him or her to a competent helper. The fact that your friend admits that the problem exists is a sign that help is in order. Don’t panic. Don’t run. But don’t promise more than you can deliver. Get your friend in the hands of people who know what to do.

Some amount of anxiety is normal when you are concerned about the impression you are making. But this anxiety is not at all unusual. In fact, most Americans say their fear of public speaking is greater even than their fear of death. Some anxiety is normal. It may even help you perform at your best. But for some unlucky individuals, anxiety can be paralyzing. If your heart beats too hard to function and your knees knock louder than your voice, you probably need to get some help with managing your anxiety. Remember, after college you may be called on to speak in public as a regular part of your job so you should use college as a place to master your fears.