Have you ever said to someone in need of medical care, “If you need something, let me know”? This can be seen as an empty way to support someone. When the person tells you that they need something that you can’t help with, what then?
Instead, you may want to express what you can, and will do for them.
“I’m available on Tuesday and can run an errand for you.”
“Do you need help with walking your dog between 5pm and 7pm? I can do a couple of days a week.”
“I shop on Thursdays and can pick up some groceries if that’s helpful.”
Even offering to help build their support network can help, for instance by asking who might be good connections from groups such as their faith community, their neighbors, their bowling league or college friends. Let them know you are working on building their support, and how they can help, especially if they are willing to help reach out to others.
Asking someone what they need can be a burden, making them think — or even say — “nothing” when, in fact, they really don’t know what they need or what you’re willing to
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