Chances are you have been in a position at least once to receive or provide comfort by another person. Whether you have been through a difficult time or someone you know has, providing comfort is a necessary action to support and help someone through their difficulty. Here are 8 ways you can provide comfort to someone in your life who is going through a difficult time and needs to be comforted:
- Be there for the person. Show up when they need you, or if you can’t be there in person, be present by phone or in a way that they want.
- Offer physical affection if and when appropriate. Sometimes a hug or a hand being held is what a person needs to feel comforted.
- Bring over a meal or treat. A favorite meal or dessert treat can be very comforting to someone who is going through a difficult time.
- Listen without distractions. Focus on their needs first and set aside your phone or other distractions.
- Ask if there is anything you can do to help them. It is easy to assume you might know what they need, but asking them can help you provide the best comfort they need in their situation.
- Provide verbal affirmations. Show your support through encouragement and loving words that demonstrate you are there for them during their difficult time.
- You don’t have to know the right things to say. If you struggle with what to say, don’t focus too much on a big speech. Sometimes people just need to know you love them and are there for them.
- Follow up. Don’t assume a one-time interaction was sufficient. Check in and find out how they are doing and what else they might need.
