How to comfort a friend in times of trouble

Life is filled with many ups and downs, and as a friend, it’s important to see your loved ones through everything. It’s easy to stick by someone’s side during the good times, but only a good friend remains true and steady when things start going downhill. However, it can be tough to know what to do when a friend of yours is going through something difficult. Here are a few ways to comfort your loved ones in times of trouble:

Send a card
Never underestimate the power of sympathy cards. This card is your way of being there for that person and expressing your condolences. Despite the gesture’s simplicity, it’s a genuine act that never goes unappreciated. It’s best to mail your sympathy card as soon as you learn about the news. Having an assortment of sympathy cards on hand can help you be prepared whenever you may need them.

Lend a listening ear
If someone you know is going through a particularly difficult situation, like a divorce or a big argument, sometimes the best thing you can do is simply listen. Often, it’s more important to listen than it is to talk. Let this person vent to you. Be there for them emotionally without being judgmental or critical. Validate their feelings, and let them know you hear what they’re saying. When they’re done talking, you can help them come up with a solution to the problem or decide what to do next.

Offer to help with small things
Maybe your friend is having a hard time with something at work, so you’ve stepped up to run an errand for them. If a friend of yours is dealing with the death of someone close to them, you can make them dinner for the week so they don’t have to worry about cooking during this extremely difficult time. These small, thoughtful gestures can go a long way in helping someone out.

Check in
While it’s important to be there for your friend, it can be equally as crucial to keep your distance and let them have time to themselves. You can check in with them via phone, text or email every once in awhile to ask them how they’re doing and see if there’s anything you can help them out with. This shows you’re still keeping them in your thoughts and willing to help them out.