Summarize the following:
You might not understand exactly what your friend is going through, but you can still let them know you’re there to support them. Reassure them that they’re not alone and that you’re there to listen and help them if they need it. It can sometimes be helpful to share a story about a time when you were emotionally struggling and asked for help. This lets your friend know that difficult times happen to everyone and that it’s okay to reach out. Asking the right question will not only help you better understand what your friend is going through, it will help your friend get out their emotions. Try to keep questions open-ended to encourage your friend to talk about what they’re thinking and feeling rather than probing for details. Questions like, “How are you feeling right now?” give your friend more space to express their emotion than questions like, “Are you mad?” It can take a lot of courage for your friend to reach out, especially if they’ve done something they’re not proud of. Try to listen to them without judgment. You don’t need to agree with what they’re saying or what they did, but remember that all people make mistakes. Listen, and understand that your friend has flaws just like every other person. Avoid placing blame for problems. If your friend cheated on a test, for example, don’t tell them they’re a bad student. Instead, say, “Math can be a tricky subject. Instead of cheating next time, though, why don’t we do our homework together so I can tutor you?” If your friend needs help to get them through a difficult time, offer to help them reach out. It can be scary and isolating to ask for help on your own. Offer to go with them or help them research options. This lets them know they’re not alone, and that it’s okay to get help for hard times. For example, if your friend is struggling with depression, they might be afraid to talk to a therapist. Offer to look up a few therapists in their area that specialize in helping patients with depression.
Let your friend know that they’re not alone. Ask open-ended questions. Avoid judging them. Help them ask for help.