Stress is complicated and becomes even more complex when someone we know or love becomes a victim of it. Many people find it hard to support a stressed friend or family member because stress is not the same for everyone.
Some become friends with stress over losing a loved one; others go blue because of a lost dream, a mental disorder, financial issues, or anything else in between these problems. The point is that it’s an uphill battle for everyone. However, learning a few tips to console someone suffering from stress might help ease the pain (for them and you). It won’t be quick and easy. They might even try to push you away, but your determination to stick with them might help them gain closure and become happy again.
In this article, we’ll be going over a few ways through which you can support a stressed-out family member or friend and initiate healing:
1. Understand the process
As mentioned earlier, the cause of stress could be anything, but what matters is that you help your friend or family member find a way to get through it. For instance, if you’re married and just had a child that suffered from muscle weakness, such as Erb’s palsy, seeking help is the first step towards recovery. You can start the process by visiting a specialized institution. They’ll educate you and your spouse about the process and help you file an erbs palsy lawsuit correctly and immediately. Through combined efforts, you can seek compensation for the damages.
The important thing is that you understand the process. People who are frequently stressing out experience sadness, feelings of hopelessness, anger, and fear. Physical problems such as digestion, sleep disruption, and tiredness are additional symptoms. As you learn more about the process, it will become clear how you can help your friend or family member in meaningful ways.
2. Avoid the clichés
The majority of cliché phrases inadvertently suppress the rebuttal. “It was God’s will,” for example, does not urge people to express their feelings. Bouncing back from stress is slowed when there is no voice. If you feel powerless, admit that you don’t know what to say or do: “I’m not sure what to say or do for you, but know that I am here for you.” Your vulnerability and openness speak volumes to your friend or family member. They may reassure them that it is okay to express their emotions.
3. Provide practical assistance
At times, stress can cause you to overlook your own basic needs. When your friend or family member struggles to navigate life’s tasks while grieving, offering practical assistance can be a godsend. You can offer to help around with menial tasks such as:
· Cleaning their house
· Helping with childcare
· Running errands
· Preparing meals for them
· Offering to manage or help pay the bills
4. Encourage them to let it all out
Create an environment where your family member or friend feels safe expressing their emotions. Their emotions can range from sadness to the unforeseen, such as anguish. Respect their emotions.
If they say they’re relieved with the adverse outcome, don’t assume they’re unfortunate. Some people alternate between pain and grief and move on with their lives. It may be something that a family member or friend does. They may be upset and want to talk about it but change the subject to something more mundane. Remember to keep anything they share with you private unless they permit you.
5. Be prepared to sit in silence
Stress brings up a range of strong emotions, and a person may need to sit silently to regain some sense of peace. It can be tough to sit in silence, especially if you know your friend or family member is experiencing emotional distress. Fight the temptation to fill the silence and instead make an effort to give it some space.
Your existence is sufficient. Even if you sit quietly together, being there for your person shows your support and love. Your quiet existence may be more beneficial than you realize.
6. Make an activity suggestion
There may be times when your stress-stricken friend or family member faces difficulties. They may be busy with work during the week, but they are lonely on the weekends. You could offer to watch a movie or walk with them. It could be going to a particular place or seeing old photos together. Simply having some company will be beneficial and comforting.
While you’re at it, remember that your friend’s life and emotional landscape have changed dramatically. You may wish for them to move on, but you have no control over the outcomes.
Conclusion
The best you can do for anyone experiencing stress, along with the abovementioned stuff, is to be there (even when you don’t want to). No combination of words will alleviate your friend or loved one’s suffering. Don’t be worried about saying the right thing because there isn’t one. Stress can consume one completely. It is enough to be present and offer kindness and love. And while you’re at it, make sure to take care of yourself.