Emotional support can come in a variety of forms. It is far more vital to have the desire and ability to give to your spouse than it is to execute it well.
Support comes in many forms. You might offer physical support to someone having trouble standing or walking, or financial support to a loved one in a tight spot.
Other kinds of support are important, too. People in your life, like family members, friends, and even close co-workers, can help lift you up emotionally by offering social and emotional support.
Here are some suggestions for feeding each other’s hearts.
What it is Emotional Support
People show emotional support for others by offering genuine encouragement, reassurance, and compassion. This might include things like verbal expressions of sympathy or physical gestures of affection.
Emotional support can come from other sources, too — religious or spiritual sources, community activities, or even your pets. Whatever form it takes, this support can improve anyone’s outlook and general wellness.
Some people have a knack for being emotionally supportive, but this skill doesn’t come naturally to everyone.
1. Touch each other often
The majority of people are touch-deficient. Simple ways to share this highly powerful feeling include holding hands, walking arm in arm, and cuddling on the couch.
2. Be respectful of your partner’s feelings
Let the one you care about know that you are accessible to talk to if he or she is experiencing a loss or disappointment. Allowing your partner the space he or she requires to process feelings is also a means of demonstrating your concern.
3. Give small gifts just because
Being surprised every now and then keeps the romance alive and shows your partner that you think he or she is special.
4. Compliment your partner in front of other people
One of the most supportive things you can do is say wonderful things about your partner in front of friends or associates. It will not only make your partner feel good about themselves, but it will also make them feel good about you.
5. Disagree with your partner in a kind and loving way
Never judge or reject your mate’s ideas or desires without first considering them. If you have a difference of opinion that’s fine, as long as you express it with kindness.
6. Say “I love you”
Actually hearing it is important to many people. Sure, there are many ways you show your love, but actually saying the three little words will reassure your partner.
7. Never ignore your loved one’s presence
Nothing hurts more than being treated as if you don’t exist. Even if you’re upset right now, you have no right to be nasty to the person you love. Consider what life would be like if you didn’t have your sweetheart by your side.
8. Listen deeply and take in what your partner is saying
Knowing that you are being heard is very nurturing. It is also the best way to heal old wounds and prevent misunderstandings. Paraphrasing what your partner has said is a great way to let him or her know you are tuned in.
9. Speak in a loving tone and remember to smile
Almost half of communication is tonal and a little more than half is visual. Speaking in a sincere and loving tone will let your loved one know you are coming from a caring place.
10. If your partner is having a rough time, pull out all the stops
Don’t hold back on helping or minimizing your mate’s troubles. Having the person you love by your side when things are rocky is a true gift.
The Final Thought
Emotional support isn’t tangible. You can’t see it or hold it in your hands and you may not notice its impact right away, especially if you’re struggling.
But it can remind you that others love you, value you, and have your back.
When you offer emotional support to others, you’re telling them they aren’t alone. Over time, this message may have even more of a positive impact on mental health than temporary mood-boosters or forms of support.
Emotional support is about helping to lift someone to higher ground so he or she can see their way through the difficulty. Having someone to rely on when the chips are down is one of the best parts of being in a relationship.
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