Student Tribune
Supporting Others During COVID-19 and Beyond
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is presenting unique challenges as we navigate
through this uncharted territory. Our daily routines have been disrupted which
can create added stress - physically, mentally, and financially. Finding new
ways to interact while also taking care of our mental health and well-being is
more important than ever. Keep in mind that social distancing does not mean
social isolation. Virtual communication can help you and the people you care
about feel less lonely and isolated. Text messages, emails, and video chats are
just some ways we can continue to support one another. It is the connections we
make with other people that enrich our lives. Below are some ways to increase
support of friends, family, and co-workers who are struggling with life
challenges.
- Practice active listening. Active listening is different
from just hearing what a person has to say. A good active listener focuses
completely on the person speaking, understanding their message, comprehending
the information, and responding thoughtfully. Active listeners ask open-ended
questions to get more details about the topic, as well as, taking moments
throughout the conversation to summarize what they've been told, and make sure
they are understanding clearly.
- Ask what you can do. It is always better to ask someone
who is struggling what they need from you, instead of making assumptions about
what they need. If the person replies with a response like, "nothing, I'm
fine," offer up a couple of suggestions for things you would be willing to do
(without being pushy).
- Don't compare. If someone is going through a tough
situation and they come to you for support, it might feel tempting to tell them
about something that happened to you, and how you were able to get through it.
It's certainly okay to share about similar experiences, but be careful not to
make comparisons. It can make someone feel like their pain is not valid.
- Listen. To be truly supportive of someone, personal
opinions and biases need to be put aside. You may have an opinion on the way
someone is reacting to a situation, but you never truly know what it is like to
be that person in that moment. Try to avoid judging someone based on their
current situation. Rather, consider ways you can understand their situation and
be supportive.
- Keep your word. If you offer your support to someone and
told them you would do something, keep your word. This is especially important
for a person who is struggling. The last thing they need is to feel abandoned
by someone else. If you absolutely can't honor your promise, make a sincere
apology and find another time you can do what you said you would.
- Offer information. Sometimes the support you can offer
won't be enough. Don't be afraid to encourage someone to seek help. Provide
them with information and resources for additional support; including self-
help strategies and professional help.
The Counseling Center and Disability Services office is here for you during
this time. Be well, stay safe, and please reach out to us if you are in need of
additional support.
With warm regards,
Counseling Center & Disability Services Team
Phone: (585) 292-2140 *Press 1 for Disability & Press 2 for
Counseling
Email: counselingservices@monroecc.edu & disabilityservices@monroecc.edu
Lee, Stephanie
Counseling Center & Disability Services
05/07/2020