Our loved ones can be our friends, parents, siblings, and partners, so it’s challenging to see them go through hardships, whether they’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or a sudden loss. There are several things that you can do to ease their worries and reduce their stress, but the most important thing to do is to show your support in a meaningful way. That said, here are four ways you can show support for a loved one, regardless of what they’re going through.

1.   Ask What You Can Do for Them

If your loved one is not currently in the right headspace, it can be difficult for them to take care of themselves, their home, or their pets. Ask them if there’s anything you can do for them and provide a lending hand if they give you a few tasks they’re not able to do. However, please be respectful if they deny your help.

2.   Provide Comforting Food

Providing comforting food to your loved one is the best way to ensure that they’re nourishing their body and eating, as this task can become significantly difficult for them. If you’re not sure what to cook during their time of need, here are a few tips:

  • Simple meals that can be reheated in the microwave or stove
  • Meals packed with essential vitamins and nutrients
  • Quick and easy meals that can be frozen

You can also order sympathy gift baskets or have food sent straight to their door using a food delivery service if you’re not much of a cook. Alternatively, you can send them money or a gift card so that they can order their own food whenever they want.

3.   Listen to What They Have to Say

One of the most important things you can do for your loved one is to lend an ear and shoulder to cry one as they discuss what they’re going through. Let them know that you’re there for them whenever they need and validate their feelings. Remind them that it’s okay to have feelings of sadness and anxiety. You also want to reassure them that things will eventually get better down the line.

However, there are a few things that you shouldn’t say to your loved one or do while they open up, such as:

  • Try and solve the problem
  • Offer advice they didn’t ask for
  • Criticize their behavior
  • Blame them for their issues 

Keep in mind that not everyone will be ready to talk openly about their struggles. Give your loved one time and be patient. Whenever you speak to them, always let them know that they are loved and cared for and that you’ll be there when they’re ready.

4.   Encourage Them to Seek Help

It’s understandable that you want to help your loved one with whatever they’re going through, but you can’t do it alone. You may also not have the resources or knowledge to properly support them.

Encourage your loved one to seek help from a professional that has the training and experience to treat their mental health issues. While there is a lot of stigma surrounding mental health, remind them that taking care of their mental health is just as important as ensuring they’re physically healthy.

If they lack the motivation to seek help, offer to schedule their appointment, research nearby therapists, check their healthcare insurance, drive them to their appointment, or sit in with them if permitted. Remember not to be pushy and respect their boundaries with this subject if they refuse completely.

Final Thoughts

Despite wanting your loved one to return back to their cheerful old self, don’t expect that to occur right away. It takes time to heal from trauma, death, and mental health issues in general. If you currently have a friend that needs your support, use the four tips in this article to help you. This can also take a toll on your own mental health, so take a break if you need to.