4 Ways To Be There For That Friend In Need Of Emotional Support
When a friend is in need it’s natural to want to be there and help in any way possible. At times, it can be hard to discern what the best way to show support is. Or course, the support we give is dependent on the circumstance, but if you’re looking for a few suggestions to be there for a friend that needs some extra love, you’ve come to the right place! Maybe they’re in a rut. Maybe they are just generally down. Maybe they’re looking at a big life change! Here are four statistically proven ways to provide a pillar of strength to that friend in need.
1) Positive Reframing
Taking what is said and reframing the words in positive terms. Focusing on the positive rather than the negative.
For example, if someone is expressing anger with “I have no self-control and I am eating so unhealthy,” try reframing with “I hear you’re frustrated because you wanted to feel successful. Tell me about the good choices you made last week!”
2) Silence
No, I’m not talking about ghosting your friend! Rather the importance of giving space to speak.
Sometimes, holding space for a loved one to talk it out and express how they feel is what is needed in the moment.
3) Humor & Playfulness
Being consistently serious isn’t always helpful.
While being mindful of not joking in a manor to make a friend vulnerable, look for opportunities to laugh and see the lighter side of things. Sometimes, we can lose sight of humor and laughter, and as a friend you can bring that lightness back.
4) Championing
Try to have an upbeat and energetic attitude! Positivity is contagious, and you can be a sense of reassurance for positivity.
Help your friend focus on the positives without dwelling too long on the negatives. Sometimes, its just about exploring possibilities, action and learning, not self-blame.
As stated above, the type of support we give is indeed dependent on the situation. However, if your friend is looking for some emotional support from being in a rut or feeling a bit negative, try the strategies above to show that you are there for them in this time of need.