“Oh My God, Don’t Say That!” How to Support Someone in Emotional Distress Without Shutting Them Down

When someone shares a painful or alarming thought like “I hate myself,” our instinct may be to shut it down out of fear or discomfort. But those reactions can unintentionally invalidate their experience. This blog offers compassionate, practical steps for how to respond supportively—so your presence can become a source of connection and healing.an idea.