How do I support a friend who is struggling?

Having a strong support system is one of the most helpful aspects for managing a stressful event. But there are so many times where we are unsure of how to help others. Welp, Dr. Martin to the rescue lol because I have some tips that I often provide.

First, be present with them, be supportive, empathize with them and empower with them. It's not always about saying the absolute right thing, because for many times, there's no perfect statement to take away someone's pain. But not having to be isolated in your pain can be incredibly helpful. Just sitting with someone can work wonders for many.

You can also provide practical support if you struggle with the emotional piece that can be cleaning, providing them with food or grocery shopping. Provide them with the space to know that they can come to you when necessary, but you don't have to be there 100% To let them know that you're supportive. Let them come to you if necessary, you don't want to crowd them.

Sometimes we assume that people know that we're there for them, but it truly never hurts to repeat it. So verbalize that you are here for that person or people. Also adjust and/or evolve your vocabulary. Don't talk about looking on the bright side, you're overreacting, calling someone oversensitive, etc. That is incredibly invalidating and if you feel like you can't do that, remove yourself from the situation because you will truly make matters worse.

Finally, remember to create boundaries for yourself. Compassion fatigue is real. Caring for others and being emotional present does take energy, and if you don't take the time for yourself you will become overwhelmed and you can't help anyone, especially yourself.

If you have been through an incredibly stressful or traumatic event, share some ways that others provided support that you found particularly useful!