Fearless Friday: How To Help A Friend Heal

There's nothing more crushing than having a friend with a broken heart. I, for one, feel helpless. I want to run to their side and hug them until it hurts on one hand.  On the other hand, I know people cope with things differently and often crave personal space. And broken hearts come in many forms: a break up, a divorce or god forbid, a death.

This week I had a dear friend text me urgently asking me for a call back. I was at a client photo shoot and I knew something was wrong. I felt trapped. When I called her back, she could barely get the words out. Hysterical and knee deep in her first panic attack as she packed her things preparing to move out of her long-term relationship and brand new condo. It was crushing. One of the worst calls I've received in a long time. 

What do you do? How do you help someone when life is pulling you in different directions between your work and family obligations? Here's a few small actions that can illustrate how much you care when your beloved friends are faced with heartbreak...

1. Stop what you're doing and listen. 
2. Go to them. Drop what you are doing and meet them. Being alone is often the worst part of their day.
3. Call them, text them, call them some more.
4. Avoid alcohol which often amplifies emotions.
5. Sleepover! There's nothing better than the comfort of a friend sharing a bed when you're at your worst. Staycations fall into this category, too.
6. Standing dates. Book a weekly cooking class, coffee clutch, movie or hip hop class so that your friend has something to look forward to and lift their spirits.
7. Just hug them. Hug them as much as they need it...they're free.
8. Mail a card just because.
9. Build a support group...rally your friends to commit to weekly check-ins, too. With any luck your friend will have almost an entire week of activities booked allowing them very little down time.
10. If your gut tells you this is bigger than you, seek help. Call the Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1 (800) 273-8255. 

Thank you for all the positive feedback and comments related to last week's series. I loved hearing from you! xo 

Photography by t+j Designs

Check out today's link ups: Style Elixir, Jo Lynn Shane, The Fashionista Momma, Lisa ala Mode,  Mix & Match Fashion