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Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: Dec 17, 2023 | Replies (40)
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Thank you for your comments! Yes, "heartless" certainly applies often. And it does seem that most people don't know what to say. Just "being there" is a million times more help than repeating stupid cliches. I was a radio newscaster for several years, and one of the scariest things to avoid is "dead air." I believe it's the same with people trying to help. They get uncomfortable when they are trying to help and there is dead air. So they think of anything they can to say. Saying nothing or only responding when asked and just being there can often (mostly?) be the best thing to do.
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I TOTALLY agree! I was just about to post the same advice as a rhetorical question after reading all of the above posts so far:
"Why can't someone genuinely smile, nod their head in understanding, and give a hug, if OK with the recipient?"
Coming from a family where I have a sister who has "numbed out" as a way to function around our small family (now just remaining is my mother & me, & my sister), believe me please when I say how hard it is to be around someone you care about who doesn't respond to things.
BUT, for people you know and/or those you care about - especially who you don't see often - I'm inclined to suggest the kind, genuine, caring approach of warmth, a hug/s and just BEING there. But never easy or enough, maybe.
Hugs.