Helping a Friend
If someone you know and care is suffering from clinical anxiety your goal should be to assist them in finding a professional counselor or psychologist. Sometimes the process of referring a friend takes a while, and there are ways you can support your friend in that process. The three most important words for you can use to support a friend are, “Tell me more.” Listening is a powerful tool in supporting others, more important than giving advice. We must remember that listening and helping your friend through challenging times requires time and energy, and helpers need to know their limits and take care of themselves as well as helping others. If your friend is open to prayer, offer to pray with them for God’s love, support, and guidance. (Lindberg et al., 2020)