Sometimes someone we love or care about is dealing with a health disorder. Knowing how best to help them can be challenging, but having some ideas on hand can be helpful. Whether you’re lending support as a friend or caregiver, these four simple ways of showing kindness will surely be appreciated.
1. Reach Out and Touch
It’s amazing what a simple touch can do for someone dealing with pain or just an extra level of stress. Hug them, hold their hand, and give them a handshake. If you need more clarification about touching, reach out and shake their hand instead. It lets them know you’re there for them without making them uncomfortable, and it shows you care about their feelings. In addition
2. Offer to Listen
It’s easy to get busy planning your day, but knowing someone is willing to listen to another person’s story can be really helpful. Whether they’re talking about how they’re feeling or what they’re doing, sitting with them while they talk can let them know that you care without being intrusive. If you’re offering this out of the blue, let them know beforehand, so they don’t feel like you’re bugging them.
3. Find a Creative Challenge
Sometimes mental health issues can make it difficult to engage in life. It’s not always easy to be creative, but even if someone you know is struggling, it’s often possible to find something they can enjoy. Look around the house together and see what creative things you can find. If they need help getting started on something, offer to help them brainstorm what they might do next.
4. Go for a Walk
If you’re looking for a way to show them that you care, spending time together while they’re out and about is a great way to do it. If you know they like to walk, offer to walk with them. If it’s nighttime, let them know you’ll keep an eye out, so they don’t need to worry about walking alone. Also, feel free to talk with them about things that happened throughout the day. Also, be sure you’re both safe if you go for a walk, and make sure it’s someone you trust.
Being there for someone living with a health disorder is always difficult. It can be hard to know what to say and how to show them that you care, but with a little thoughtfulness, it can make a huge difference in their life. Even if you can’t always fix the problems, being there for them will help them feel like they don’t need to rely on themselves alone. Take some time to think about what you can do to support a friend or family member dealing with a health issue. Even something as simple as holding their hand for a few seconds can make them feel loved and encouraged, and it’s also sure to make you feel better too. It’s important to be gentle with one another when you’re trying to help others; showing kindness is a great way of showing that.
