Why do we have friends? As human beings we feel a deep drive to establish these sorts of connections. We are successful as a species because we can accomplish great things when we work together. Throughout our lives we will experience good times and dark days. We may be different but when things go wrong we all need to know there is someone there ready to provide professional, mental or divorce help. But while we may know that we want to support someone it’s hard to know what you should do.
Let them know that you’ll be there for them. One of the deepest troubles that people find themselves facing is the belief that they will be abandoned if something goes wrong in their life. Children can come to fear their parents disowning them, grown men and women can fear their friends and family leaving them to die alone and penniless. These beliefs can grow even if the evidence doesn’t support them, even if people acknowledge that their beliefs are irrational it won’t necessarily cure them. That’s why you need to do what you can to make it clear that you won’t abandon them. Tell them “when my friend needs help I’ll be there.”
Be careful about what you say or do. Hastily made decisions and words said in the heat of a moment can’t be taken back. It can take days, weeks or even months to recover from actions and statements that take just seconds. Keep this in mind as you consider how you’ll help your loved one. When you think “my friend needs help” it’s easy to get swept up in the urge to do something, anything, to feel like you’re not just letting them suffer.
Don’t be afraid to suggest a visit to a therapist or counsellor. Too many people feel like there is something embarrassing about talking to a professional relationship counseling Austin Texas. These negative stereotypes end up hurting countless people across the world who could have benefited greatly from seeing someone. If you can’t convince the person you’re trying to help to attend a meeting themselves think about setting up an appointment yourself where you can tell the counsellor “my dad needs support.” They’ll be able to equip you to better address the needs of the person you’re trying to help while simultaneously helping you with the stress this sort of situation can cause.
Really listen to what they’re saying. One of the most crucial roles that friends and family can play in these situations is the attentive listener. While you’re listening pay close attention to any sign that they might pose a danger to themselves or others. Hopefully you’ll never have to face anything like this but you don’t want to assume that nothing can happen. Even the strongest people might do things they regret when they feel like they have no other choice. So when you think it’s time for serious help for your husband, son or friend don’t be afraid to call the relevant authorities.