when someone shares their story or experience with you, you have the ability to influence how they will proceed. if you express disbelief, they may not feel comfortable reaching out for any other kind of help.
help to clarify what you think they are saying. listen carefully to your friend or loved one and then tell them what you think they said about their feelings. they may be talking about their emotions in a way that seems jumbled. you can help by sorting out and repeating back what was said. say things like: “it sounds like…” or “what i hear you saying is…” or “i think i’m hearing you say…” if 