Am I a Supportive Friend?

Being a supportive friend means showing up with empathy, honesty, and consistency. Here are some key ways to be a truly supportive friend:

1. Listen Actively

• Put away distractions (phone, TV).

• Don’t interrupt or immediately offer advice unless asked.

• Use responses like: “That sounds really tough” or “Tell me more about that.”

2. Validate Their Feelings

• Avoid minimizing what they’re going through.

• Say things like: “It makes sense you’d feel that way” or “Anyone in your shoes would feel overwhelmed.”

3. Show Up—Emotionally and Physically

• Be there in person when possible, or check in regularly with a text or call.

• Consistency over grand gestures: a short message asking how they are can mean a lot.

4. Respect Their Boundaries

• Don’t push advice or expect them to always be available to you.

• Ask: “Would it help if I offered advice, or do you just want me to listen?”

5. Encourage Without Pressure

• Help them see their strengths or options without forcing action.

• Say: “You’ve gotten through hard things before—whatever you choose, I’m here.”

6. Be Honest and Kind

• Support doesn’t mean enabling unhealthy choices.

• Gently speak up when something concerns you, from a place of love: “I care about you, and I’m worried…”

7. Celebrate Their Wins

• Be just as present for their joy as you are for their struggles.

• Send a thoughtful message or plan something fun to celebrate with them.

8. Take Care of Yourself, Too

• You can’t pour from an empty cup. Set limits when you need to.

• Let them know: “I care about you and want to be here—I’m just a bit drained today, but I’ll check in tomorrow.”

Would you like tips for being supportive in a specific situation—like dealing with grief, a breakup, or mental health issues?