Hear Their Silence!
We do speak, but its subtle.
I'm Tired, really tired. I'm tired of hearing the comments that someone didn't say anything. We do express our depression or emotional pain. Alot of us become silent when the weight is the heaviest.
We have to be better at Hearing The Silence, we need to slow down long enough to notice when someone is having a hard time.
A few signs to look for;
- Lack of emotion,
- Possible over dramatic emotions,
- Keeping to themselves, staying away
How to help;
- Pause,
- Let them know that you notice something isn't "right",
- Simply ask them if they are okay, if they they are fine and brush you off dont be too pushy. Maybe back off a litte and ask again a short time later. Consider that you may unknowingly be part of their stress and they may not want to disturb the "peace" at the moment.
- Sometimes a spouse or close loved one is actually part of the stress, due daily household things. Try not to take it personally. Don't give up but also don't push too hard before asking someone else to talk to them.
- Suicide hotlines such as 988 lifeline are not just for the ones that are depressed. They can also be a great source of information for finding ways to talk to someone.
- Sometimes just sit in silence with them, and just let them know you're there. That could be all that is needed for them to open up a conversation.
These are just suggestions, the main goal is to save a life, and help someone.