How do I help my loved one when they are sad?

Differences in sadness and sorrow definition

relationship to distress and emotion regulation

Elevated, heavy feelings – sadness, guilt, remorse/regret, powerlessness

• Time oriented, long suffering, pain taking time

• Death, change, trauma, heartbreak, injustice, loss, disappointment, bad luck, trouble

Consider the moments when someone becomes aware of something challenging

No fixing

acknowledgement goes a long way

let these emotions be a process

let people’s emotions, including our own be complicated and layered

let it be seen by God with someone

invite that person into regular life things

2 Corinthians 1:3-4, God of all comforts, God of all, but especially of comfort

Psalm 18:6-8, God’s anger at what makes us sad or hurt

Resources:

https://heidigoehmann.com/articles/sorrow-an-acknowledgment

https://heidigoehmann.com/articles/honoring-our-sorrow-sadness-amp-tears-a-scripture-list-for-lent

https://www.kfuo.org/2020/01/20/coffee-hour-012020-no-shame-in-sadness/