10/05/2024
****Some suggestions of what NOT to do or say for someone who has been through a traumatic event.
* "It happened for a reason"
* Insincerity and false compassion to make yourself feel good, rather than real concern for that person.
* Making decisions or taking actions on their "behalf" without talking to them first. If they didn't say it was ok, it's not ok
* Don't assume you know how they feel because of your history.
**** Some suggestions of what to do or say for someone who has been through a traumatic event
* Give them a hug if they're open to that; or perhaps just a gentle touch on the back or shoulder or other physical acknowledgment of their struggle
* Let them know you are available for support; tell them once; they heard you
* Allow them to heal
* If you know they love sweets, salty, etc, give them a small gift of food.