Work Text:
Kathleen Wells had done significant reflection over the past few days. Between her coffee date with Mag and Leta and spending time with all five of her children, she'd discovered something particularly significant. So, for this week's advice blog, she wrote what she'd learned this week. This message needed to get out. More importantly, the individuals who read it thoroughly understood the significance behind the words and took it to heart.
“Hello, everyone. Kathleen Wells here. While I believe I have many years ahead of me, I've noticed some concerning trends in our world. As the wise Ms. Hughes from Downton Abbey once said, 'I'm not a woman of the world, but I DON'T live in a sack!' The world is full of issues, and some things are getting out of hand. However, one crucial aspect needs to be recovered: offering genuine support and empathy.
People must remember what it means to truly listen to someone in need. When someone reaches out, they aren't looking for solutions or to be 'fixed.' Often, they just need someone to listen, to offer comfort and empathy, and to show that they care. I've observed that many people have overlooked the essence of being a supportive friend or family member.
It's essential to recognize that when someone is overwhelmed and needs to talk, they aren't necessarily seeking therapy. They might already have professional help. They need the intimacy and support that can only come from friends and family. They need someone to hold them, whether physically or metaphorically, and to allow them to vent and express their emotions.
I've seen individuals in treatment who still crave the emotional support that mental health professionals can't provide. This support comes from genuine human connections—those between friends and family. So, remember to listen when someone reaches out and offer your emotional support without trying to fix them. Sometimes, that's all they need.
That's all for now, folks. See you next time!"