The Quickie: How To Show Up Better For People In Crisis Or Tragedy

Teach Me How To Adult

How do we show up better for people in crisis, or anyone facing tragedy? Because I think a lot of the time, we’re getting it wrong. I believe that humans innately want to help, but societally, we were never taught HOW to help effectively.

Whether someone we know is dealing with the aftermath of fires or natural disaster, job loss, a death, divorce/breakup, fertility issues, or health diagnoses… life is hard enough without the bombardment of platitudes and toxically positive “silver linings”.

We need to learn the power of meeting people where they are in their processing, and get comfortable sitting with them in their pain. Because the world is a better place when we show up for one another.

Tune in for helpful ways to support:

• Things you can say to someone instead of dismissive platitudes
• How to support in a way that takes the burden off the ones who are suffering
• Being specific and proactive in the ways you help
• Offering support tailored to your unique strengths and gifts
• Don’t “bright side” or silver lining someone’s grief
• Learn to ask questions and hold space for someone’s grief
• How to depressurize communication during crisis
• Stick to the facts and avoid speculation
• Play the long-game in support: be the friend who shows up months later, when they feel forgotten

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