How to Be Emotionally Supportive

Showing emotional support to a friend or loved one during a disappointing or heartbreaking time can be very significant to the person with the problem. Sometimes just the simple act of being there, ready to listen and showing empathy is enough to keep the person from spiraling into depression or withdrawing from people or group activities.Doing so will help your relationship will flourish.

Instructions

• 1

  Tell your friend or loved one that you're there for her whenever she needs to talk. She may not be ready or willing to talk right now, but when she is, it will help to know you're willing to hear her concerns.

• 2

  Touch the person to show empathy. Sometimes a pat on the back, holding a hand or giving a hug can be just as effective as a long talk.

• 3

  Buy him a small gift just to show you care. Showing up with the person's favorite candy bar or the latest CD from his favorite musician can be a thoughtful and meaningful gesture to a person who's suffering. It doesn't have to be a huge offering, just a little something to show him that he's in your thoughts.

• 4

  Concentrate on improving your relationship if your partner often says you're not emotionally supportive on an ongoing basis. Remember to tell her you love her, include her in conversations and acknowledge her presence whenever you're talking with co-workers or friends. Just putting your arm around her waist will let her know that you realize she's present in the room and that you are aware and care about her.

• 5

  Argue in a respectful manner and remember that differences of opinions don't have to crush the relationship, according to the article, "Ten Ways to Give Emotional Support," by Barton Goldsmith, Ph.D. Solve disagreements with your significant other by truly listening to his version. Process the words in a thoughtful manner and then say something like, "This is what I think you are saying to me ...Is that correct?" This will let him know you care about understanding his point of view and want to clarify exactly what he's saying.

• 6

  Reflect kindness and caring in your attitude and tone of voice. A harsh or dull tone can negate words of kindness, making the other person think you don't mean what you say. Smile and use a caring tone to show empathy.

• 7

  Avoid crowding the person and giving unwanted advice that you insist she follow. Often, the caregiver feels helpless and needs to direct the hurting person's path by giving too much advice. Sometimes, it's necessary to give the person space, if that's what she feels she needs. Tell her you want to be there for her and that she needs to tell you how best to help her. Gently tell her you can't read her mind, but are sincere in wanting to be emotionally supportive, according to the Psychology Today.