Help a friend who has lost a loved one
Losing someone can obviously be a traumatic experience. Often this also also leads to a loss of trust. “Teenagers might find it difficult to talk to other people and make new friends when they’ve experienced trauma,” says Radhika Sharma, counselor, who has previously worked with counseling centres such as Arpan and Ummeed.
When you want to support a friend who has lost someone remember you will also have to deal other things than just sadness. Sometimes there is also fear, lack of trust, or depression.
1. You will have to be patient. It might take your friend some time to open up to you.
2. “Being curious helps. Asking about what they like doing, and their activities can be good conversation starters,” says Sharma.
3. For your friend to trust you, you need to accept resistance. If they don’t want to join a party, give them space.
4. Accept their feelings by being accommodative.
5. Ask them what they would like to do in their free time, and join them. Choice is integral.
6. Another indicator is using language that is non-judgmental. Whenever your friend shares something close to their heart, acknowledge it in a way that makes them feel accepted.