Five Ways to Show Your Support to a Struggling Friend

At Sockprints, we are committed to bringing joyful memories to our customers. 

That being said, we know that despite best efforts to keep things light and positive, we all go through difficult times, too. And when we see the people we love struggling, it can be difficult to watch. 💔

Human beings are hardwired for connection, and studies show that we’re born with an instinct for compassion. What does this mean? We get the same gratification from helping others that we get from helping ourselves. And when we see others suffering, we naturally want to do something to alleviate it. ❤️‍🩹

But wanting to support someone, and knowing how to, can be two different things. As we head into a season of shorter days, longer nights, and packed holiday schedules—all leading to increases in depression, anxiety, and stress—Sockprints is sharing our favorite tips for supporting others who are struggling. 

Ask

It may sound simple, but just taking the time to ask someone how they’re doing can make a big difference. And if “How are you?” sounds too cliché, here are some other phrases you can try to start a conversation: 

• Is everything okay? 
• Did anything make you smile okay? 
• It’s good to hear your voice!
• What’s on your mind? 

Listen

When someone is struggling, it’s tempting to jump to problem solving. But even the best-intentioned “Have you tried…” or “Maybe you should…” when someone is having a hard time can make someone feel belittled or like their problem is being trivialized. 

Taking the time to just listen can make a world of difference. According to the National Council for Mental Wellness, when someone is struggling “having an empathetic listener can be calming and reassuring—even healing.” 👂

So before you jump in with suggestions, take a step back, pour a glass of wine, and just listen. 

Serve 

October 28th is Make a Difference Day, but you don’t have to wait until then to reach out and offer to help someone who is going through a difficult time. Maybe you offer to bring dinner, or babysit, or pick up someone’s grocery order. It doesn’t have to be big to make a big difference! 

Looking for other ways to serve and support outside your sphere? Check out some of Sockprints’ favorite causes!

Distract

Sometimes, people just need a break. For example, a friend going through a divorce might just need a girl’s night out. Or a teen who has been feeling anxious about college may need to take a night off from writing application essays and just enjoy the home game. 🏈

When you can’t fix a problem, allowing your loved one to get away from the stress—even for just an hour or two—can help them emotionally recharge. And from a girls night in, to a night watching the big game, Sockprints has some fun mementos to help make your evening feel even more festive and keep the carefree feeling going after the outing is over. 

Give

When words fail—or geographical distance prevails—a small gift can let someone know you’re there. Maybe you send a small Pride gift to a friend who is struggling to find the courage to come out to their family, or some bold Think Pink socks for a friend to wear to chemo while she’s being treated for breast cancer. Alternatively, donating to an organization that supports a cause that’s important to a friend can mean a lot, too! 

Whatever it is, let it come from the heart! 💕