If someone opens up to you about something personal, it is important to be respectful and understanding. This person has trust in you and is sharing something vulnerable, so try as much as possible to be supportive.
I have experienced some struggles in the past couple of months. I do my best every day to remain optimistic and strong. I'm convinced that each problem any of us could face represents an opportunity to be stronger.
Without discussing details, I'm learning how to deal with different issues. We can't stop bad things from happening, but our reactions make a difference.
Sometimes all I want is a fresh start somewhere happier. I resort to reading, writing, music, movies and yoga to feel centered and somehow not alone, that's why those things mean a lot to me.
I find it difficult to vent because when I vent to someone, they usually listen to give their opinions and not hear what I have to say.
That's why I'm writing this post about what to do when someone opens up to you:
-Value the fact they trusted you to know whatever is hurting them.
-Emphasize that you care.
-Reassure them they're not alone.
-Listen without interrupting them.
-Stay away from saying "I told you so" if you previously warned them about the situation they're in.
-Be present and allow them to cry if they need to.
-Be compassionate and thoughtful.
-Don't tell them "it happens to everyone".
-Don't tell them "just get over it".
-Don't consider them weak.
-Don't belittle their sadness and fears.
-Don't pressure them to follow your advice.
-Don't flood them with questions.
-Don't distract them with another topic.
-Don't say "are we talking about this again!"
-Don't say "you're too sensitive" this phrase is like a slap on the face.
-It's not a competition about who is suffering more, if you went through a similar situation, don't say "it is easier for you".
-Acknowledge that what they're facing could be worse than what they say and they can't find a way to explain it.
People can vent to you only when they value you, so keep whatever they say to yourself, please don't speak about it even to your best friend.
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| Photo by Liza Summer from Pexels |
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