Some
Alternative Responses
To Support Someone in Crisis
Instead
of: It’s probably not as bad as it seems.
Try: What helps you get through tough times?
Instead
of: Just pray harder.
Try: Are there spiritual resources I can help you
with?
Instead
of: You shouldn’t dwell on the negative.
Try: It’s hard to find anything good at times
like this, isn’t it?
Instead
of: I don’t understand why you’re so upset.
Try: Help me understand what you’re going through.
Instead
of: The more you talk about it the worse you’ll
feel.
Try: Let me be your sounding board for awhile.
Instead
of: Don’t you know it could always be worse?
Try: It probably seems very overwhelming right now
to you.
Instead
of: You’ve got to keep smiling and looking
for the positive.
Try: I’m impressed that you’re able to
keep going.
Instead
of: Where’s your faith?
Try: Sometimes our faith journey takes mysterious
routes, doesn’t it?
Instead
of: Everything happens for a good purpose.
Try: Right now it’s probably hard to see any
good coming out of this.
Instead
of: Just count your blessings.
Try: In spite of everything, you seem to have much
going for you.
Instead
of: You need to stay busy with other things.
Try: May I help you talk through your options?
Instead
of: Here’s a professional counselor you should
call.
Try: Would you consider seeking additional help?
Instead
of: I know lots of people who’ve dealt with
that.
Try: Sometimes it helps to find others who have
survived the same thing.
Instead
of: You know we’re not supposed to ask why.
Try: Isn’t it amazing how many people of faith
also struggled with why?
