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