Hindustan Times (Delhi)

How to help a friend deal with their emotions

- The author is directorde­partment of mental health and behavorial sciences, Fortis Healthcare.

affected persons, as it is important to give a chance to express their feelings and release their pent-up emotions. It is a myth that talking about the problem aggravates the situation. In fact, giving them a chance to vent out their feelings and emotions is more likely to help the person lighten the burden by being able to share it with someone who is concerned.

It is important for you to give the person a listening hear, and be non-judgmental. Do not offer them unsolicite­d advice. Giving reassuranc­e with active listening and engaging with the person is very beneficial. Try and empathize with the individual, to try and understand his or her emotions. Show that you care for the person, and do not interrogat­e. The most effective role you can play is to be a listener, and offering your support.

It is not the most important for you know the exact reasons or events occurring in the person’s life! Do not offer them unsolicite­d advice. Giving reassuranc­e with active listening and engaging with the person is very beneficial. Try and empathize with the individual, to try and understand his or her emotions. Show that you care for the person, and do not interrogat­e. The most effective role you can play is to be a listener, and offering your support. Do not interrogat­e or form judgements.

Do not hesitate to reach out for help. It is important to encourage the person to seek the support of mental health experts to ensure adequate interventi­ons and prevent adverse outcomes. Besides being a source of support, it would be beneficial if you could help the individual to reach out to the help of a profession­al mental health expert for adequate interventi­ons.

 ?? Getty images ?? Try and empathise with the individual
Getty images Try and empathise with the individual

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