How to listen well

When a friend opens up, the most useful thing is usually to listen, not to fix. Give them your full attention and put your phone away. Let silences happen.

Reflect back what you hear: "It sounds like you have been carrying this for a long time." Ask open questions such as "What has been the hardest part?" Avoid comparing ("I had it worse"), rushing to advice, or saying "Others have it worse" or "Just think positive", which leave people feeling unheard.

You do not need to understand everything or have answers. At the end, ask what would help, and gently ask whether they have thought about talking to a counsellor or doctor.