Kindness Matters: 7 Powerful Ways to Help Those Going Through Difficult Times
Laurie Moser . Published October 30, 2023
Source: unsplash
You friend is going through a very challenging time right now, you want to be there to support her. If you have not experienced the same challenges that she’s going through, how do you do this? First of all, you don’t have to be going through the same challenges or have similar experiences to offer support and help to a friend or loved one. Example: I have a teen that has mental health challenges. Most of my amazing and supportive friends and family members don’t have a teen struggling with mental health challenges but they still can offer the most amazing, caring and genuine support.
Here are 7 heartfelt ways you can offer support to a friend or loved one in need:
1. Be a Good Listener
Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is simply listen. Be fully present, without judgment or distractions, and let them express their thoughts and feelings. Often, sharing their burden lightens the emotional load. Just having a friend that listened to me voice my fears, anger, concern, worry, overwhelm and heartbreak was everything. Often, that was all I needed in that moment to feel better.
2. Offer a Helping Hand
Practical assistance can be a game-changer. Offer to run errands, prepare a meal, pickup kids from school or arrange playdates. By easing their daily responsibilities, you provide much-needed relief and show that you genuinely care. It can be those everyday mundane tasks that become too much to handle when you’re in a crisis or feel overwhelmed by life.
3. Send Thoughtful Messages
A heartfelt message can brighten even the darkest day. Send a text, email, or handwritten note expressing your support and love. Knowing that someone is thinking of them can provide immense comfort. A handwritten note is such a beautiful gift to give someone. Even a text saying: Just thinking of you and sending my love, no need to respond back, can make a big difference in letting someone know that you care and you’re thinking of them without wanting anything back.
4. Respect Their Needs
Everyone copes differently. Some may appreciate company and distractions, while others might need solitude. Respect their boundaries and be understanding if they need space. Your sensitivity shows that you value their needs and feelings. Make your offer of help about the person you’re helping not you.
5. Offer Specific Help
Instead of a generic, "Let me know if you need anything," offer specific help. For example, "I can pick up groceries for you," or "I can pick up your kids from school." Concrete offers are easier to accept and demonstrate your genuine willingness to assist. Or just leave a meal on their doorstep, everyone appreciates food. You have to eat!
6. Educate Yourself
If they're facing a specific challenge, take the time to educate yourself about it. For example: If it’s a teen struggling with mental health challenges, learn about their specific mental health challenge and resources that could help the family. Maybe your friend is not aware of a new mental health facility where you live. Whether it's a health condition, grief, or a personal struggle, understanding their situation shows empathy and helps you offer more informed support.
7. Be Patient and Persistent
Recovery and healing take time. Be patient and persistent in your support. Check in on them regularly, even when the initial shock or crisis has passed. Knowing that you're there for the long haul provides a sense of security and stability.
Remember, offering support is not about having all the solutions or advice; it's about showing that you care, that you're willing to stand by their side, and that they're not alone in their journey. Your gestures of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripples of hope and strength in their lives.
You can make ALL the difference in someone’s life with your kindness and it’s easy to do.
LAURIE MOSER
Laurie Moser is an advocate for moms’ mental health. Supporting moms who have teens with mental health challenges using self-care tools & group support. Laurie has been featured by Focus on the Family, Real Biz Moms, Tracking Happiness and a guest on 5 Minutes for Me App, Voice of Women (VOW) and I Never Knew (INK).
