To understand the roots of support it is a verb and a noun. As a verb, support is giving assistance to enable a function or act. As a noun, support bears the weight of something or keeps upright. So, what is the difference? Both highlight keeping someone or something being uplifted and moving forward.

Is there a right way to provide support?

There are people who embrace the provision of support. Whether in their work or personal life providing support may come second-hand. It does not feel like a burden. The support they provide may be supporting themselves in a way.

There are people who may shy away from overt support. It may be the fear of being a burden. A fear of being in the way. It can be the feeling of wanting to provide support but not knowing how.

Throughout my life people gravitated towards me for support they needed. It would happen naturally through conversation and next thing I know our conversation is ending with a thank you for my support.

I provide support through my profession. There are times where my role feels vital and then I do have the feeling that I am too much, too much of the burden, almost feeling in the way.

How to navigate through these personal emotions when supporting another individual is a simple first step… breathe. I have observed people will outline their boundaries and will vocalize if they are or not in a space for support.

Begin support with a check-in. An easy and open-ended question. Allowing the other person to direct their own narrative, not the narrative we feel we need to direct.

Provide listening. In my profession, active listening is key and something we all can practice. This is as simple as being open ears and hearing key phrases the person you’re supporting may say.

There is no wrong in providing support through in-person conversation, on the phone or through text message. Either platform is a way of showing the person who you want to provide support see’s that you’re in tune with them.

Please share your thoughts on if there a right kind of support?