Introduction
When a loved one is not feeling well, it can be difficult to know how to best show your support. Whether your friend or family member is facing a physical illness or mental health issue, understanding what to say and do can help them feel cared for and supported. This article will explore eight ways to offer comfort and support to someone who is not feeling well.
Offer Words of Encouragement
A simple but powerful gesture is to offer words of encouragement. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Words of comfort and hope can help a person cope with feelings of sadness, fear or anxiety.” It’s important to choose your words carefully—look for phrases that are comforting without being too prescriptive or dismissive. Examples of words to say include: “You’re not alone in this,” “I’m here for you,” and “It’s going to be okay.”
When offering words of encouragement, it’s essential to be genuine. Avoid empty platitudes or trying to fix their situation—simply listening and being present is often enough. When speaking with your loved one, focus on being supportive and validating their feelings. Psychologist Brené Brown recommends using phrases like “Tell me more about that” or “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed” to show that you are listening and empathizing with their experience.
Provide Practical Help
Another way to show your support is to provide practical help. Depending on the person’s needs and your relationship with them, you could offer to run errands, cook meals, or take care of other tasks that need to be done. A study published in the journal Social Science & Medicine found that “informal support” such as practical help was associated with improved psychological wellbeing and physical health outcomes.
When providing practical help, make sure to ask permission first and check in regularly to see if the person needs anything else. Try to focus on small tasks that don’t require too much effort, like picking up groceries or dropping off a meal. If possible, set up a schedule so that they have consistent support over time.
Send a Thoughtful Gift
Sending a thoughtful gift is another way to show your support. A study published in the journal Psychology & Health found that receiving a gift can improve both physical and psychological wellbeing. Consider sending something that shows you understand their current situation, such as a cozy blanket, a book, or a box of their favorite treats.
When choosing a gift, think about what would be most meaningful to the person. Think about their interests and passions, as well as what might be helpful during their recovery process. For example, if they are dealing with a chronic illness, you could send a subscription to a wellness magazine or a gift card to a local yoga studio.
Reach Out to Other Family and Friends
Reaching out to other family members and friends can also be a great way to show your support. A study published in the journal Social Science & Medicine found that social support can reduce stress and improve physical health outcomes. By connecting your loved one with others who can provide emotional and practical support, you can help relieve some of the burden they are carrying.
When reaching out to other family and friends, it’s important to respect the person’s privacy. Ask your loved one if it’s okay to share their story, and if so, who they would like you to reach out to. You can also suggest online support groups or community resources that may be helpful.
Listen With Compassion
Most importantly, make sure to listen with compassion. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that compassionate listening can help reduce stress and improve psychological wellbeing. Be present and attentive when your loved one is speaking, and try not to judge or minimize their feelings.
When listening with compassion, focus on understanding their experience rather than giving advice. Ask open-ended questions and validate their emotions. You can also offer words of encouragement and remind them that they are not alone in this.
Share Positive Memories
Finally, consider sharing positive memories. A study published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that reminiscing about happy moments can have a positive effect on wellbeing. Choose stories that are meaningful to the person and remind them of the good times that you have shared together.
When sharing positive memories, make sure to keep your tone light and upbeat. Avoid focusing on any negative aspects of the story and instead emphasize the joy and laughter that you experienced together. This can help lift their spirits and remind them of all the wonderful things in their life.
Conclusion
When someone is not feeling well, it can be difficult to know what to say or do. Offering words of encouragement, providing practical help, sending a thoughtful gift, reaching out to other family and friends, listening with compassion, and sharing positive memories are all great ways to show your support. By being there for your loved one in these small but meaningful ways, you can offer comfort and remind them that they are not alone.
As author Elizabeth Gilbert reminds us, “We can’t cure everyone’s sorrows, but we can at least offer our company along the way.” So next time a loved one is not feeling well, remember these eight ways to show your support.
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If you or someone you know is struggling with an illness or mental health issue, remember that you are not alone. Reach out for help if you need it, and offer your support to those around you.
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