Usually when someone is venting at me, I feel like I should respond somehow and say something, but I have no idea what that something could/should be. Is it better to just listen or try to comfort them in some way?

  • cerevant@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    6
    ·
    1 year ago

    Listen and be supportive. If you feel the need to solve, of think they are looking for a solution, ask. “Are you venting or looking for advice?”

    It is really important to ask before offering advice/solutions, because doing so can make someone feel like you are trivializing their problem, or that they can’t solve it themselves.

    • Thavron@lemmy.ca
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      4
      ·
      1 year ago

      If you feel the need to solve, of think they are looking for a solution, ask. “Are you venting or looking for advice?”

      "Would you like a hug, or a solution?