The Golden Rules
This is how you should express concern when asking someone about their well-being correctly.
What is showing care and concern?
If you’re worried about someone, this is the best way to approach them.
What is asking them directly how they’re feeling?
This phrase is a simple way to let someone know you’re there for them.
What is ‘I care about you'
This is a good way to open a conversation if you’re worried about someone but don’t know where to start.
What is saying, ‘I’ve been thinking about you lately’?
This is what you should avoid saying when someone shares a personal struggle, as it can invalidate their feelings.
What is, ‘It’s not a big deal’?
This type of communication avoids assumptions and ensures clarity when discussing concerns.
What is being straightforward and honest?
This is an effective way to validate someone’s feelings without dismissing or minimizing them.
What is saying, ‘It’s okay to feel this way’?
This is what you should ask if you suspect someone is overwhelmed but haven’t talked to them recently.
What is ‘How have you been doing lately?’
Acknowledging someone’s feelings with a simple statement like ‘That sounds really hard’ shows this.
What is active listening and understanding?
Golden Rule #3 emphasizes this combination of honesty and compassion in conversations.
What is being direct?
When expressing concern, avoid sugarcoating or using vague terms and instead practice this.
What is being clear and direct?
The phrase ‘I’ve noticed you seem different lately, and I’m here for you’ demonstrates this quality.
What is care combined with observation?
When starting a sensitive conversation, it’s important to do it in this type of setting.
What is a private and comfortable environment?
When someone is sharing something difficult, you should avoid interrupting them and instead practice this.
What is listening attentively?
What is expressing concern directly but kindly?
You should use this type of tone to balance honesty and care when talking to someone in distress.
What is a calm and non-judgmental tone?
When showing concern, it’s important to focus on the person’s feelings rather than this.
What is trying to fix their problems immediately?
Rather than jumping to conclusions, this is a more caring way to ask someone if they’re okay.
What is, ‘Can I check in with you about something I’ve noticed?’
This is a communication skill that involves repeating back what someone says to show understanding.
What is paraphrasing or reflecting?
The goal of all five Golden Rules is to empower individuals to do this for others.
What is support their mental health?
Being honest and direct can feel uncomfortable, but it’s essential to help someone feel this.
What is understood and supported?
Listening without interrupting or judging someone is an example of this behavior.
What is showing care and empathy?
The most effective conversations about mental health often start with this combination.
What is a calm tone and genuine curiosity?
Effective communication often involves avoiding these phrases, which can make someone feel judged.
What are ‘You should just’ or ‘Why can’t you…’?