What to Say/What Not to Say to Someone Who is Struggling

Published March 21, 2022

Do you ever feel like you don’t have the right words to say to a loved one who is struggling?

The truth is, the words we use (or don’t use) hold a lot of power—the power to harm and the power to heal.

This month, we’ve teamed up with our friends at Style Blueprint to share what to say and what not to say to someone facing grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, and more.

You can read the full article here.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside the article:

When a friend is grieving

What to say:

  • I’m so sorry this is happening.
  • This feels really big. I’m not sure what to do, but I’m here.
  • Would you be willing to share your favorite memory of them?
  • No one deserves this type of pain or loss.
  • This matters.

What not to say:

  • At least they’re in a better place.
  • It could be so much worse.
  • You’re better off.
  • Look on the bright side.
  • It’s for the best.

When a friend has received a scary diagnosis

What to say:

  • I’m here with you.
  • There’s not a right or wrong way to respond.
  • You don’t have to have it all figured out.
  • I am here to help in whatever way is most helpful (and it’s okay if you don’t know what that is yet).
  • It’s okay to be scared.

What not to say:

  • At least it’s not … [fill in the blank]
  • You’ve lived a full life.
  • It’s going to be okay.

For the full article, check out this article from StyleBlueprint.

Remember, humans are not a problem to be solved; they are people to be engaged.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *