Which is a helpful way to support someone struggling?

From the book – Chapter 17: Helping a Family Member

The right answer

"I'm here for you. How can I help?"

Five simple steps can guide you when someone you know is struggling:

Figure 17.1 Five steps to help someone in distress.

Step	What to do
Reach out and check for danger	Start a conversation; check for suicidal thoughts or danger
Listen without judging	Hear them out with respect
Offer comfort and clear information	Reassure, share information about the condition and treatment
Help them reach a professional	Suggest a doctor or counsellor; offer to help book or attend
Build other support around them	Family, friends, peer groups, self-help, healthy routines

The Door That Stayed Closed – Fatima, 15, in Lucknow, has started spending evenings in her room with the door shut. She skips meals, her marks have fallen and she snaps at…
Appa in the Village – Mr Gowda, 76, lives in a village near Mysuru with his son's family. For months he has been quiet, forgets where he put things, and says,…
Brother, Bottle and Blame – Imran, 35, in Kolkata, drinks every evening and more on weekends. He has missed work, lost his temper with his wife and borrowed money. His younger…
The Daughter Who Held Everything Together – Lakshmi, 40, in Hyderabad, looks after her mother who has schizophrenia, her two children, and works part-time. She gives medicines on time, goes to every appointment,…

Tukaram Gatha; cite by first line – The person who treats the broken and suffering as their own family is a true saint. That is where God lives.