Tips to Help Someone Close to You Stop Feeling Sad

The mother of a good friend of mine passed away two nights ago. It was completely unexpected, and thank goodness she crossed whilst sleeping. No pain or suffering. That was left to her survivors, as sad as that is.

Suddenly her home is teeming with friends and family. Her father has came to stay with her and husband

What to do... she is sad, depressed, heartbroken. Should I leave her to the care of her family and other friends? Of course, yes and no. I will be there for her... but I decided as I was walking across the grass to her front door to offer my condolences, I would be there for her... after everyone else has gone back to their lives and their own grief.

What can I do though? Without infringing on the personal emotion that is grief. Without coming across as too pushy or thoughtless? After all, she has been prone to bouts of depression... and she has not seen a professional for aid.

I thought about how all my dear friends have helped me... and as I knocked on the front door I had come up with some tips. Yes, I had started walking at a much slower pace while pondering all this.

Tips to help someone close to you to stop feeling sad- I will take a lesson from the Man in Black... and walk the line

Well, I will not walk away. I will let her know I am there for her. If I think she is feeling more than sad- that she is in a depressive state... I will suggest... as nicely yet firmly as possible, the importance of seeking professional help.

Tips to help someone close to you to stop feeling sad- I will be her over the shoulder boulder holder...

I will offer her friendship and support. I will suggest going for coffee. (We are both HUGE Starbucks fans) or take a walk. If I see a glimmer or a desire to smile, I will suggest we take a walk or go see a movie... preferably a funny one. I hear from the reviews that The Proposal may be just the ticket.

Tips to help someone close to you to stop feeling sad- Be a right listener not a wrong one

I will listen to what she has to say. If I am committed to this friendship-and I am- then I will not place her on the defensive by spouting advice she may not want or be ready to hear. That will just encourage her to close up more. I will listen to what she says and offer encouragement. I will provide positive affirmation to her... but no lectures.

Tips to help someone close to you to stop feeling sad- do research

If she gets to the point where she realizes that she is more than sad, I will recommend a professional. I will offer to even make the appointment for her and go with her on her visit... yet, I will refrain from being too much involved. I am not seeking to be co- dependent. Just a friend. Once she is aware of the problem, she can gain her own strength in battling it... with the assistance of professionals.

She may not need my list... and I may not have to engage in any of my tips... but at least I know I am prepared to ... offer help- should my friend be in need.