Someone you know has suffered because of love in one way or another. Maybe they have had their heart broken, been cheated on, or the relationship simply did not work out. Seeing your friend in pain is not easy, and you can tell that heartbreak takes a toll on them.
It’s natural to want to console your friend in any way you can. You are able to look at their situation from the outside, so you have a different perspective than your heavy-hearted friend. However, you still want to tread lightly, as you do not want to add more anguish to the situation.
Personally, my roommate just got out of a long-term relationship, and seeing her grieve has been difficult. She, of course, is upset, and it’s difficult being single after being with someone for so long. I hate seeing her so down lately, and I wanted to think of some ways to help her out.
Here are a few ways to cheer up your recently single friend:
- Be There and Listen
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You have to let your friend know that you are physically and emotionally available for them. They are going through something very difficult, and it will cheer them up to know that you will be there for them when they need to talk. You do not have to check in on them constantly because they will probably want some time alone. However, just letting them know they can count on you is what matters.
When you talk to them, it is important not to interject or offer your thoughts on the situation right away. You want them to talk to you and come to their own conclusions about what they have experienced.
- Take Them Out
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Maybe your friend has been in bed for a week, and it’s time to encourage them to get outside and do something. You do not necessarily have to drag them out to a party quite yet, but maybe suggest grabbing a coffee at a coffee shop to just chat.
Try to think of activities that you know they like to do so they will be more excited to get out. Maybe they like going to the movies, art exhibits, or even sporting events. Eventually, after going out to do small activities, your friend may want to do something more social, like a party.
- Set Them Up
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You should probably wait to do this until your friend is very certain they want to get back out there. Setting them up with your boyfriend’s friend or a friend of a friend could be a fun and low-pressure way to get your friend back onto the dating scene.
You have to make sure the person you set your friend up with knows of their breakup, and you should let them know your friend may be a little hesitant. Maybe set them up with someone who is not expecting something serious, as your friend may need more time.
- Help Them Move On
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Being surrounded by pictures of an ex or having their stuff around is not pleasant when you are trying to move on and heal. You can help your friend out by offering to take down photos of an ex around their room. Then, you can help them bag up their ex’s belongings and take them out of sight.
Your friend will appreciate you taking down all the mementos, as it may be too hard for them to do themselves. Just place everything in a box for them if they do not want to throw it all out just yet.
- Remind Them They Are Strong
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Your friend is probably really vulnerable and needs to be reminded that they are strong and can endure this difficult time. Breakups are tough and take time to overcome, so being reminded of one’s ability to make it through something so painful is helpful.
You can be there for your friend and encourage them. Your friend needs to know they are more than this heartbreak and have several other qualities that make them the amazing human that they are.
Being a good friend during a tough time like this is no picnic. However, the most important thing is that you’re being a good friend.