How to help a friend deal with their emotions
If you ever notice a friend, colleague or a near and dear one who seems to be under the weather, or experiencing any form of an emotional turmoil, have you ever wondered what would be the best approach to adopt? This is a common situation encountered by most of us in our daily lives, and therefore the following are some of the points which could be helpful.
Be calm
First of all, it is important for you not to get anxious or distressed. Be calm, and provide your support by being there for the person. If you yourself get anxious or worked up, you would not be in a position to be of any help or support.
provide support and empathy
Further, it is also important to assess the risk factors and not to ignore any warning signs. In fact, if you are able to engage in a conversation about the person’s feelings, you can help the person in coping with the situation by taking a solution-oriented approach, and reaching out to the existing support mechanisms. Give the person a chance to express him/herself, and provide a listening ear. You don’t always have to give advice or offer your opinion. Simply convey your genuine concern and support.
Talk
We should not hesitate to initiate the conversation with the 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.
Avoid being nosey
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!
Be nonjudgmental
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.
encourage helpseeking
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.