Aaron Chy, BSc, BSc Pharm/PharmD. Candidate
The signs are often subtle, and may go unnoticed as we carry on with our daily routine. It could be anyone; a friend, family member, or a co-worker who may just not be acting their usual self. Maybe you’re concerned; they seem sleep deprived, could be missing meals, and they’ve been acting a little distracted lately.
Regardless, you might feel the need to reach out but might not know how. Here’s some Do’s and Don’ts you may want to consider before starting a conversation.
Don’t:
- Make assumptions. Even if we think we’ve had similar experiences, we can never fully understand what someone’s going through until we listen.
- Offer advice straight away. Instead, recognize they may have already heard what you have to say, or thought of it themselves. Give them the opportunity to speak.
- Downplay or dismiss their concerns. It’s hard enough to talk about our problems, dismissal can easily make someone feel embarrassed or pull away even further.
- Treat them differently. Avoid walking on eggshells, and instead provide the same level of respect you would to anyone else.
Do:
- Be respectful of boundaries. This is by far the most important as not everyone may have the desire to open up. Offering support can be just as important as giving it.
- Let them know you’re around, whether that be to help them out or simply give them an ear to listen if they ever need it.
- Ask if they’d like to talk, or if they’re holding up alright, or if there’s anything at all you can do to help.
