Listen non-judgmentally & with empathy
Try to understand what they need.Do they need someone who will listen, someone to give advice, someone to give them a hug, or someone to reciprocate their emotions?
Do not be afraid to ask them!
You can use these prompts to show that you are listening and not judging them:
- “How has this made you feel?”
- “How long have you felt this way?”
- “What do you think caused that?”
Actively listen and show this with your body language: Nod your head, keep eye contact, maybe go “mhm”
Express your support for them by saying:
- “If you ever want to talk again, let me know.”
- “I am here for you.”
- “I understand what you are saying.”
- “I hear you.”
Validate their emotions.
- “That sounds like it was really hard for you.”
- “You have every right to be upset.”
- “I can see why you feel that way.”
