How Do You Give Emotional Support To One Who Has Had A Traumatizing Experience?

Often when a family member or friend has experienced a devastating loss, whether its from a death, a financial hardship, a divorce or breakup of a long time relationship, or a health crisis, the people around them may say things that are more hurtful than helpful. When it's a child that has suffered the loss, there is even less understanding on how to offer emotional support.  Children often act out when they are sad, afraid, grieving or angry and the adults around them punish them rather than seek to understand their distress.  Too often we're expected to just "suck it up" or "get over it."  Often when we try to talk about our sadness or grief, others will just look at us with a blank stare, because they don't know what to say. And yet, people who have survived a traumatizing experience need sensitive, caring people around to help them cope with their emotional pain.  How can we give emotional support to friends and loved ones going through a crisis?  Joining us today are Cathy Ann Ellington, Grief Counselor, Airelle Bragg, Business Woman, Tatiana Vasquez, Crisis Survivor, and Latoya Wiseman, Founder of "Women on the Move." Call in and comment, 515-605-9325, or 515-605-9891. Press 1 to speak to the host Naimah Latif and co-host Karriem Hameed.