What is an effective communication strategy when dealing with someone experiencing distress?

An effective communication strategy when dealing with someone in distress is to listen actively to their concerns. Active listening involves fully concentrating on what the person is saying, making an effort to understand their feelings, and responding in a way that shows you are engaged and care about their situation. This approach helps to create a safe and supportive environment, allowing the individual to feel heard and validated.

When a person is in distress, their emotional state can make it difficult for them to process information. By actively listening, you demonstrate that you respect their feelings and are willing to provide assistance based on their needs. This can help to de-escalate the situation and may lead to more effective problem-solving.

In contrast, dismissing their feelings or using strong tones can contribute to further agitation. Merely expressing sympathy without intervention fails to provide the support or guidance they may need in that moment.