Do you have a friend or family member who’s struggling with a debilitating illness, anxiety, depression or addiction? These issues can make it difficult to function in everyday life, much less keep up with the demands of work, family and social relationships. Knowing how to help someone facing a physical or mental health crisis can feel overwhelming but don’t let it stop you from supporting your loved ones. Even if you feel inexperienced in these areas, you can still be a source of strength for those you love when they need you most.
Be a Listening Ear
Sometimes, people just need a safe space to voice their worries and concerns. Talking can be therapeutic for those who are walking through a difficult time. Learning how to be a good listener without feeling the need to offer advice, judgment or instruction is a great way to support your friends during a trying time. Set aside time once a week for a phone call or visit to give them a chance to talk.
Share Words of Encouragement
Taking the initiative to reach out and show you care can transform a person’s outlook when things are looking dim. Make an effort to mail a card or simply send a text to let your loved one know you’re thinking of them and that they are important to you. Hearing these words can provide strength and hope in a crisis.
Suggest Professional Help
Even though your companionship can go a long way in assisting a troubled family member, sometimes it’s helpful and even necessary to enlist the help of professionals. This is especially true in the case of serious addiction and depression, as these situations can quickly become serious and even dangerous. Help your loved one find local christian recovery programs or a professional therapist who can offer the experience and resources they need.
Offer Practical Support
While you can’t offer the treatment a professional can, you can still support your loved ones in practical ways, especially when life is hard. Offer to bring by dinner, whether you prepare it yourself or pick it up from their favorite restaurant. Help them with chores they may be behind on, like laundry, yard work or simply washing the dishes. If they have kids, offer to babysit so they can have the time they need to practice some extra self-care, whatever that may look like.
Learn to Create Healthy Boundaries
While it’s good to be someone your friends can lean on in times of trouble, it’s also important to learn when to say no. Don’t make a habit of neglecting your own wellness and responsibilities to meet the needs of others. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or underappreciated for your efforts, set some boundaries so that you don’t get burned out. Enlist the help of others to provide additional support. Schedule specific days or times when you can set aside the time to help and you’ll be more likely to keep things balanced.
If someone important to you needs help, reach out and support them. There are plenty of simple, practical ways you can assist your loved ones during times of crisis. Even so, remember to point them towards professional help when it’s needed.
