It is difficult to see a loved one unhappy. At times like these, you wish you had a magic wand to make things better, but the reality is that we all deal with unhappy events and emotions from time to time.
To gain perspective, I thought about times when I was unhappy and what helped.
During high school, I wanted something desperately and that something didn't come my way. This made me very unhappy. What helped was devoting my energy and attention to other events and pastimes that did make me happy. In college, there was a sad break up. That left me unhappy--I did a lot of thinking, took the time I needed, and again, got involved in lots of other events which was a good path to take.
There was also an unhappiness due to personal error. At that time, I found the supports needed to make better. Doing something that helped to counter the unhappiness helped too.
We will all be unhappy from time to time. When I've been unhappy, people who listen, offer support and help me to engage in new activities and endeavor have been very helpful.
So how do we help out when those we love are unhappy?
- Listen
- Offer support, but don't push it
- Invitations to engage in activities and visit