Simple Ways to Show Up for Friends in Stressful Seasons of Life

The phrase “Life is like a roller coaster” might be overused, but that doesn’t negate its truthfulness. Some phases of life feel euphoric and rewarding, like you’re heading straight for the sky and nothing can stop you. Other life seasons may feel heavy and overwhelming, like you’re plummeting toward the ground with no way to stop yourself. Fortunately, it becomes much easier to get through a difficult chapter of life when you have a team of supportive individuals in your corner.

Do you have a friend who’s struggling through a stressful life season? If so, now is the time to step up and let them know they’re not alone. You don’t have to do anything drastic to help someone get through tough times. Regular, small efforts are often more meaningful than occasional, grand efforts anyway. Here are five simple ways to show up for friends during stressful life seasons. 

1. Remind Them That They’re Not Alone

One of the most impactful things you can do for someone who’s struggling is remind them that they’re not alone. Let them know you’re there to help them overcome life’s stressful circumstances. You can do that by reaching out to them by telephone, text, email, or whatever their preferred communication method may be. Your efforts will help your stressed-out friend feel more loved and grounded.

You can also show support for someone who’s going through a stressful life season by sending them thoughtful sympathy gifts. This is a great outreach option if the recipient is so busy and overwhelmed that they rarely have time to talk in person. Choose a gift basket containing soothing items like fuzzy slippers, self-help books, comfort foods, or aromatherapy.

2. Be a Supportive Listener

People often talk about the power of words and how they can change lives. While that’s true, it’s important not to underestimate the impact silence can have. Anyone can talk, but listening supportively is a skill that many people don’t have. If you truly want to support a friend who’s dealing with a stressful phase of life, try learning how to actively listen to them.

Active listening is a communication skill that anyone can develop if they’re willing to put in the practice and effort. Active listening techniques include:

●        Making good eye contact and showing interest

●        Remaining fully present in the conversation (no distractions)

●        Listening with the intention to understand instead of listening to respond

●        Reflecting back what is said

●        Withholding advice (unless it’s specifically requested)

●        Paying attention to non-verbal cues

●        Asking open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversation

●        Withholding judgment

Your primary intention while actively listening should be to understand the other person’s perspective so you can support them most effectively.

3. Help With Daily Tasks

For someone who’s experiencing burnout, the thought of washing the dishes or vacuuming the floor might seem overwhelming. Even getting out of bed in the morning or taking regular showers can become monumental tasks when you’re overly stressed. If you have a sense that your friend can’t handle everyday responsibilities, consider stepping in and helping. By taking some of their burdens onto your shoulders, you can help them feel lighter and more capable.

You could help by going grocery shopping or running errands for them during particularly stressful times. Or you might volunteer to wash the dishes for them or take their dog for a walk on the weekends. Some people have a hard time asking others for help, so it’s better to offer your help in specific ways. For example, your friend may respond more favorably if you offer to vacuum their floor instead of asking, “What would you like me to do?”

4. Bring Laughter and Enjoyment to Their Life

Laughter is one of the best types of medicine for stress, anxiety, and depression. It has immediate and long-term health benefits and is one of the most underestimated forms of therapy. Laughing enhances social connections and makes burdens seem less insurmountable. It also triggers the release of stress-relieving hormones called endorphins. If you know someone who needs a quick pick-me-up, try to get them to laugh.

When people are stressed out, they often don’t “feel like” laughing. However, once they get started, their mood tends to lift and they realize life isn’t as bad as they thought. Whether you reminisce about funny or embarrassing moments or watch a sitcom together, take time to laugh with your friend.

5. Help Them Set Healthy Boundaries

Do you have a friend who frequently gets overwhelmed because they’re a people-pleaser who can’t say no? If so, it may be time to stage an intervention. As a true friend, it’s important to lovingly point out how taking on too much can lead to feelings of failure and overwhelm. In a non-judgmental way, encourage your friend to start setting healthy boundaries in their professional and personal lives.

You might consider role-playing how your friend should react when asked to take on too much at work or in the community. Help them brainstorm polite ways to turn down additional commitments or responsibilities that may seem overwhelming. Let your friend know it’s important to prioritize their own physical and mental health needs.

Conclusion

It hurts to watch someone you love struggle with stress and burnout. Fortunately, you can have a positive impact on their life and help them get through hard times. Try implementing these five simple, effective ways to show up for your friends during stressful seasons of life.

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