How To Give And Receive Support


If you are grieving over the loss of a loved one, a support system is crucial. Dr. Phil shares his advice on giving and receiving support.

    Developing a support system.

  • You have to be willing to ask for help. It doesn't make you weak; it's OK to let people give you what they can.

  • Be open and honest about what you need.

  • The benefit of a support system is that your whole network won't be down on the same day. When you really need support, someone will be there.

  • Expect ups and downs over the following months, but trust that the pain will gradually lessen.

     

     

    Giving support to a grieving friend.

     

  • Be available.

     

     

  • Remember that your friend is in a very different place emotionally.

  • If you're not sure what to say or do, just ask. Say, "Do you feel like talking about this right now?" If they do, be there for them.

  • If they don't want to discuss their heartache, don't press the issue. Let them know that you are there for them regardless.

  • Don't treat your friend like an invalid. Encourage him or her to get out and get busy doing day-to-day activities.

  • Be supportive, but not smothering.

  • Recognize that you may need your own support system. Sometimes you can give support, and other times you'll need to receive it. Don't expect yourself to always be the leader.

  • Watch out for a shift into depression. If you see your friend withdrawing into an emotion fetal position, it's time to intervene.