Check out these resources to begin your path of leading others out of pain.

• Helping Those Who Hurt, H. Norman Wright
• The Grief Recovery Handbook, John W. James
• Being There, Marianna Cacciatore

Below are a list of conversations starters and talking points for those experiencing pain, loss, abuse, suffering, etc. We hope these can serve help you walk with others through difficult times and provide a safe space for them to process.

Abuse

• Pray, listen, and ask questions.
• Do NOT preach at them, try to rescue/fix them, or blame them.
• Avoid questions that make them relive the experience.
• Encourage the person and be empathetic.

Anxiety/Depression

• Show your concern for someone who is struggling.
• Open up a dialogue about their mental state and ask empathetic questions about their mental health, physical health, activity level, relationships, etc.
• Encourage them to reflect on their overall well-being.
• Prompt or encourage them to seek out professional help if it is necessary.

Grief/Loss

• I am so glad you had the courage to reach out during your loss. I know that wasn’t easy. I’m sorry that you are even at this place where you need a mentor in the area of grief and loss.
• Tell me about the loved one that you lost. 
• What was one of your favorite memories of your loved one?
• What you miss the most about your loved one?
• What is the most difficult thing for you right now?
• What are some of the other emotions that you have felt during this grieving process?

Suffering

• Tell me your story.
• Listen and validate their feelings.
• How can I best support you?
• Who/what is hurting you?
• What are some things I can do to follow-up with you?

Are you looking for someone who can help you or a loved one walk through a difficult period or circumstance? We have a list of counselors by specialty. 

Counselor List

You may wonder, "What do I pray for?" when someone you love is suffering? Or you may be suffering and are at an impasse of what to do or how to pray. Pain looks different from person to person and situation to situation. Check out our Prayer Toolbox to help you walk through various ways to pray with someone who is hurting and/or for yourself. 

Prayer Toolbox