Pride Month 2024: It is important to consciously process these feelings to ensure you are providing the support and acceptance that the person reaching out to you needs.
It's important to consciously process these feelings to ensure you provide the support and acceptance the person opening up to you needs.
Having a friend, family member, or loved one open up to you is a delicate and sensitive moment that can evoke a wide range of emotions. It's important to consciously process these feelings to ensure you provide the support and acceptance the person opening up to you needs.
Dr. Mona Gujral, a Delhi-based psychologist, who shares her experience on coto, a women-only social community app, says, “Firstly, recognize your own emotions. Whether you feel surprised, confused, or even unsure of what to say, understand that your emotions are natural. However, your focus should be on the person who is honest with you. Listen carefully, be compassionate towards them and their emotions, offer your unconditional support and, above all, do not judge. Your reaction can significantly affect their sense of safety and acceptance, so it is important to create a positive, respectful and comfortable environment in that moment and beyond.”
Second, stay present and be empathetic. “Avoid being too quick to label or judge your emotions as well as theirs. Instead, establish support by asking them how best to support them. Remember, you are not trying to solve their problems or fix anything, you are simply supporting them, providing validation and being understanding,” adds Dr. Gujral.
If necessary, turn to online platforms like coto or even therapists to help you deal with the situation yourself and find the right guidance to help the person reaching out to you. “Live consultations and online support groups are a great way to navigate these complex emotions. Through conversations, you can gain ideas and strategies to manage your feelings effectively and help react to this situation (and many others) with compassion, ensuring your loved one feels safe, understood, and most importantly, loved by you. what it is,” he signs. Dr. Gujral.
