“I don’t always want to talk about how I’m feeling, but sometimes I find that the question, asked in earnest, opens me up to sharing, which can be very cathartic.”
– Jake G.
Ways you can help
You don’t have to know exactly what to say, just empathize. And even if the person seems fine, don’t minimize their feelings, as their experiences are very real.
If you’re thinking someone needs a check-in, there’s a good chance they do. Call, text or pop a card in the mail to say hi. And keep checking in. Even if they don’t respond right away, they’ll feel your support.
“Some words of comfort that I received were things like ‘You matter. You are a human. You are worthy of love. You can do this.” —Jordy B.