When someone close has experienced something tragic, he/she may feel the need to talk about it over and over again. Simply being there and listening will help the person close to you to handle the crisis. You can ask the person how he/she is feeling. You should avoid giving straight solutions and rather allow the other to tell about his/her feelings. Talking is a sign that the person in crisis is ready to handle the matter and to share his/her feelings with others.

The most important thing is to contact the person in crisis and to offer your time. Far too often the people close to the person in crisis do not have the courage to face him/her as they are afraid they might say something wrong, for example. However, inappropriate expressions of support are more welcome than the feeling of abandonment and confusion which occurs when the people around the individual disappear right when he/she needs them the most.

Many of those who have experienced crises say that they appreciated the concrete help offered by others. When they are too tired to go to the store, it feels good to cook together with a close friend. Concrete actions, such as cleaning and cooking, allow the chance to discuss the difficult matters on the side.

You can support a person close to you suffering from a crisis:

• by listening
• by being around
• by helping in everyday life
• by maintaining hope
• by showing that you have the time now and in the future
• by helping the person seek professional help, if necessary