When a loved one is suffering, there are various forms of support that can benefit your mental health.

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When Ericka opens up to her friend Louise by telling her she’s on the brink of a breakdown, Louise could offer emotional support. Here are two examples of what Louise could do to support her friend: she could offer empathetic listening and encourage her to seek professional help.

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As a close friend, you may play different roles over time. In this case, Louise is offering an attentive ear (emotional support). If Louise is busy, however, she may not be able to go grocery shopping for her friend (instrumental support) or provide possible solutions (informational support). Ericka might then ask her neighbour to go shopping for her.

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It’s difficult to fulfill all three types of support. Identify your limits, communicate them and make sure to respect them.