10 Compassionate Ways to Support A Friend Who Is Struggling
Compassionate Ways to Support A Friend Who Is Struggling
When someone is going through a hard time, sometimes we decide not to bring it up for fear that we might "remind" them of their loss and make things harder.
The reality is that they carry that pain every moment of every day. They already know it; you cannot remind them that the pain is always present.
When you choose to reach out to someone today, you will not overwhelm them. You will comfort them.
If you are supporting someone who is navigating grief, infertility, or another type of struggle, you can help them feel less alone by using the following tools.
Validate their feelings
· Use active listening
· Show empathy and understanding
· Reflect back on what was said
· Validate their feelings by acknowledging their significance and legitimacy.
Offer Practical Help
· Bring them tea or coffee
· Offer a listening ear
· Offer to help with pets or children
· Stay connected
· Text to ask how they are
· Call to check in with them regularly
· Send them a card
Encourage self-care
· Help them to create a self-care plan or schedule to make it more manageable.
· Offer to be their accountability partner or support system in practicing self-care
Be Patient
· Respect Their Journey
· Encourage sticking to a routine
· Everyone heals in their own time.
Provide Resources
· Share resources like articles, books, or professional or peer support groups.
· If appropriate, and they need mental health support, offer to help them find a therapist you could even offer to accompany them to their first appointment if they need moral support.
Stay Educated
· Research the topic can help you to be more empathetic and better prepared to offer appropriate support.
Offer a Listening Ear
· This doesn't have to be an in-depth conversation every time; sometimes, a simple text saying you're thinking of them can make a big difference.
Encourage Expression
· Creative expression can be a powerful outlet for emotions. Suggest journaling, music, or dancing as these can help to free trapped emotions.
Start a support network
· Organize a group of friends to provide a support network. This could involve setting up a meal train, taking turns checking in, or providing assistance.
Remember support can mean different things at different times. You can always ask your friend how they would like to be supported, and let them offer some suggestions.
Assure them of you willingness to be there for them in a way that is helpful to them.
What are some other ways you offer support to a friend that is hurting? I’d love to hear in the comments below!
