How to Support a Loved One Going Through a Hard Time

Whether it’s due to bereavement, job loss, money troubles or something else, it can be hard to see a loved one going through a difficult period. You want to be able to help them but may be worried about intruding into their life or making the situation worse. There are lots of ways you can support someone who is having a difficult time, so here are some ideas that can help you reach out.

Let them know you are concerned

It’s important to know how to talk to someone going through a hard time, and you should never simply tell them to get over it or point out that others have it worse. Instead, you could offer to talk when they are ready, tell them you are not alone and ask how they are coping on a regular basis. This lets the person know that they are supported, and even if things get really dark, they know someone cares for them.

Offer help with practical matters

When people are going through a difficult time, they often neglect basic things like cooking healthy meals or cleaning the house. However, a clean house and nutritious food can help with their mood, so simply doing a few errands for them can get them through this difficult process. Ask your loved one what they need, whether it’s shopping or a ride to the doctors, so they know you are there when they need them.

Discuss whether they need professional help

It’s natural to want to take care of your loved ones, but there is a point where they may be better off getting professional help. Ideally, your loved one should go for treatment willingly, so discuss whether they need to see a trusted doctor or therapist. If they have a specific issue, such as an eating disorder, you may want to do some research like visiting edentreatment.com to get a bit of knowledge about these conditions and potential treatments before you broach the subject.

Encourage their independence and recovery

While supporting someone in crisis is important, you shouldn’t make them dependent on you. If they become dependent, it may take them longer to recover and get back to their normal life. Encourage them to become independent over time, whether it’s getting them to enjoy activities they used to like again or helping them get back into work.

Put them in touch with relevant organizations

When someone is in the depths of a crisis, they may not have the clarity to lookup organizations to help, or they may be afraid to reach out. Do a little research for them, whether it’s finding help for mental illness, bereavement support groups, or charities that deal with their specific issue. If they are worried about calling, sit down with them when they make the initial call, text or email, as this will ensure that they don’t put things off or accidentally lose the details.

It’s not always easy to support a loved one, and you need to set firm boundaries, but by being there for them you can help them through their crisis and back to their normal life.