Helping someone through a crisis

Phone apps

MoodMission

MoodMission is a free app aimed at improving wellbeing by helping users learn better ways of coping with low moods and anxious feelings.

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If you are concerned about someone you know:

Listen

Spend time with them
Listen carefully
Encourage them to talk about their feelings
Be willing to say nothing and just be there
Give them space and some private time
Do your best to ensure they are safe
Understand that they will have their own pace of coping and healing
Don't take their anger or other feelings personally

What to say

Tell them you are sorry that this event happened and you want to understand and help them
Reassure them that their reactions are normal in the circumstances
Remember that this is about their feelings, not yours
Don't assume one gender will handle things better than the other
Don't tell them you know how they feel
Don't impose your explanation or judgement of the situation
Don't tell them they are lucky it wasn't worse

Other support

Offer moral support if they have to attend any meetings or court hearings
If their symptoms are severe or long-lasting, you might suggest that they see a doctor or a counsellor
Offer to help with practical tasks like cleaning, cooking, minding children or pets
Trust your instincts if you sense they might be a harm to themself or others and make sure you connect with someone who can help
You might need counselling yourself to help you deal with the reactions of a loved one in a crisis situation