Written by: Aquib Nawab
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Friendship
Offer a safe space by being an attentive listener. Avoid interrupting, giving advice, or passing judgment. Let them open up on their own terms, and show empathy through your words and body language.
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Regular check-ins show that you care. Send a simple text or make a call to ask how they’re doing. Your consistent presence can provide reassurance and remind them they’re not alone in their struggles.
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Understanding what your friend is going through can help you offer better support. Learn about their mental health condition through books, articles, or reputable online resources to foster empathy and awareness.
If they haven’t sought professional help, encourage them to reach out to a therapist or counselor. Offer to assist in finding resources, and reassure them that seeking help shows strength, not weakness.
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Everyone needs space, especially during tough times. Respect their emotional and physical boundaries. If they need alone time or don’t want to talk, give them the room to process their feelings.
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Not every problem can be solved with a positive mindset. Acknowledge their pain and validate their feelings, rather than offering clichéd statements like “just stay positive” that may feel dismissive.
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Mental health recovery takes time, and progress won’t happen overnight. Be patient with their journey, offering steady support, even if it feels like there’s little to no visible improvement right away.
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Sometimes, small acts of kindness can be incredibly meaningful. Offering to do practical tasks like picking up groceries, cooking, or running errands can help lighten their load and show your support.
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