279-Top 10 Things to NOT Say to Someone in Crisis

2024-11-01

HOPE IN THE STORM- Let’s explore how to truly support someone in crisis by understanding what not to say. Even well-meaning words can unintentionally hurt or create distance when someone is going through an intense, personal struggle. By avoiding certain phrases and focusing on empathy, we can offer genuine comfort that doesn’t inadvertently invalidate their experience. Key Takeaways: Avoid Minimizing Language – Phrases like “It could be worse” or “Everything happens for a reason” can feel dismissive an...

HOPE IN THE STORM-

Let’s explore how to truly support someone in crisis by understanding what not to say. Even well-meaning words can unintentionally hurt or create distance when someone is going through an intense, personal struggle. By avoiding certain phrases and focusing on empathy, we can offer genuine comfort that doesn’t inadvertently invalidate their experience.

Key Takeaways:

Avoid Minimizing Language – Phrases like “It could be worse” or “Everything happens for a reason” can feel dismissive and minimize the person’s experience. Instead, validate their pain by acknowledging the difficulty of their situation.
Offer Tangible Support – Saying “Let me know how I can help” often puts the burden on the person in crisis. Instead, offer specific help, like cooking a meal, running errands, or simply being present.
Focus on Listening, Not Fixing – Sometimes, trying to “fix” the situation with positive thinking or comparisons can be counterproductive. Simply listening and letting the person express their emotions can be the most supportive thing you can do. Learn how to get comfortable with negative emotions so you don’t feel the need to ‘fix’ the moment or the person.

Listener Challenge: Next time someone you know is facing a crisis, practice empathy without giving advice or solutions. Instead, try asking questions like, “How are you feeling right now?” or “Would you like to talk more about it?” Make space for their emotions without attempting to guide them toward a “silver lining.”

***VIParts of this episode to refer to:

Come Close Now by Christa Wells

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