Supporting someone in tough times is difficult and we are never taught how to talk about it. These 6 helpful tips will help you keep the conversation going and help them open up.
1. **Give Them Time:**
Ensure you’re in a private, relaxed setting with no rush. Let them speak at their own pace and say, "Take your time; I'm here to listen."
2. **Show Appreciation:**
Acknowledge their struggles. Thank them for sharing by saying, "I appreciate you talking to me; I care and want to help."
3. **Listen to Understand:**
Focus fully on what they’re saying. Listen actively and show empathy without trying to solve their problems.
4. **Be a Good Listener:**
- Sit beside them, facing them.
- Keep an open posture and avoid distractions.
- Ask open-ended questions like, "How are you feeling?"
- Don’t minimize their feelings.
- Summarize what they said to check understanding.
- Use encouraging responses like "I see" or "Okay."
5. **Allow Emotional Expression:**
Let them express their emotions freely, whether they are angry or sad, without judgment. It's okay for them to feel how they feel.
6. **Follow Their Lead:**
Respect their pace; don’t push them to talk if they're not ready. If face-to-face is too much, suggest texting or doing something casual together.
Offer Ongoing Support:
Encourage professional help if needed. Check in afterward to see if the conversation was helpful. Be honest about what support you can provide.
After the Conversation:
Take care of your own feelings too. Talk to a trusted friend about how you feel, but avoid sharing personal details about them to maintain their privacy.
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