emotional support

Problems. We all have them. From which outfit we should wear, to our favourite book character dying, and especially to more serious problems like the loss of a loved one and divorce. All of these things happen, and more often than not, it’s
to somebody we know and want the best for. It could be a friend, family member, significant other, or anyone that you as a person can relate to.


When other people go through problems, they will need support. Think of that person who’s always been there, and will continue to. They’re going to need someone to lean on too. 


Now, I really truly realized this when somebody I deeply care about came to me and I got scared. It scared me that this person needed me and I couldn’t help because I didn't know how. I thought I’d lose them because they came to me for something I couldn’t provide in that moment. 


Right then, I decided to research what to do if someone has a panic attack or a crisis and I found some conflicting answers. Because I knew that all people are different, I decided to ask the person what they needed from me when they felt like that. 

Some of the stuff they told me didn’t surprise me, but it opened my eyes that it could be the simplest thing that helped something with their problems. 
​

~Listen to them. Sometimes letting them get all of their feelings out while someone’s there to listen is enough for them to calm down. It’s not difficult but it can mean the world to someone to know that they have a person who cares for them. If they can’t speak because of anxiety, let them use the notes app in your phone. 


~Say positive affirmations. Telling them it’ll be alright, that you’ll get through it together  can help them start thinking positively and can calm them down. Sometimes people want to have their moments, and that's okay. 


~Ask what the person needs. They know best. Occasionally, all they want is to be alone. Sometimes, they need a hug. Others, they just need someone to sit with in silence. It’s their decision and it’s important to respect that.


Hopefully you find some of this useful. Ultimately, I can’t tell you exactly how to help people, but you’ll find your own methods of helping the ones you love.
~~
Caitlyn