Ask a Psychologist

by Lisa Little, M.Sc., Chartered Psychologist

(About Lisa)

(This question answered on or before: 2008-01-07)

Q:

How do you suggest to someone that they should see someone for help without isolating them and making them even more upset?


A:

Hello,
By making a suggestion that this person needs help, you are taking a risk that this person may withdraw and may get even more upset. However, if you are really concerned about this person, then I believe taking the risk is worth it. My experience has been that if you make the suggestion from a place of care and concern, rather than from judgment, then they are more apt to receive your recommendation and less likely to get upset. People like to know that they are cared about. However, can you let go of any expectation that this person will follow through your suggestion? His or her not following through has nothing to do with you and you can feel satisfied because you risked speaking up even though this person may not follow through with your suggestion to seek help.
Best of luck,
Lisa Little

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