As a previous volunteer listener for Samaritans, the training call handlers recieve is fantastic and very thorough so if you do call (116 123), you'll almost certainly be in safe, non-judgemental and empathic hands.
Even without training, reaching out to someone who might be struggling could make the world of difference to them, and may be easier than anticipated with just a few simple techniques, and some time:
1️⃣ Listen actively: give the person your full, undivided attention and try to focus not only on what they are saying but how, their body language and what is not being said. Give encouragement for them to continue e.g. nod. Say "uh huh", "go on" or "tell me more" etc and although it might feel awkward, give them the opportunity to fill any silences and don't bring the focus of the conversation back around to you or your experiences.
2️⃣ Use open-ended questions: Yes/no answer questions mean the question asker is leading the conversation and may not make a conversation last long enough for a person to open up if given a chance. Be patient, it can take a while to build up the courage to share. Ask questions that start with why, how or what and try to ask about how their situation makes them feel or think. Try and be as non-judgemental as possible in both the tone and the words you choose to ask or respond with.
3️⃣ Be empathic: Sympathy is understanding someone's position from your own point of view. Empathy is understanding someone's feelings as if they were your own. Avoid the urge to immediately try and solve the person's problem - sometimes things only start to make sense when they're said out loud - so they may just need someone to listen and help them validate their own thoughts or feelings. This can clearly incredibly difficult if there is a strong emotional connection (family member, close friend, partner etc)
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Reminder: Reaching out is a small but mighty way we can all look out for each other. 💚
#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
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