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The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on all, especially the parents of newborns. It’s been a challenging ride, and no one was spared the fear of uncertainty (or unknown possibilities). We were gripped in fear of dying as most of us had lost our safe-havens.
Although the intensity of problems may have differed, we (a group of four) were at our lowest. While one of us encountered a job loss, the other had financial emergencies to bear. When yet another friend of ours was dealing with a medical crisis in the family, I had just given birth to my baby and was dealing with the much-dreaded postpartum depression. It wasn’t easy for any of us.
Personally, the pandemic was a massive blow to my mind and health, but I am grateful for the amazing friends in my life who offered me a great deal of emotional support. I was anxious, unsure, and inconsolable. I wanted to vent.
A casual chat with a friend of mine on one gloomy afternoon introduced me to a four-word magical phrase: “This is so hard.” Such a thoughtful response from my support network was so impactful that it got me valuing the power of words. “This is so hard” hit the bull’s eye. It was the best phrase to tell someone like me who was going through a turbulent time, and it rightly captured the emotion of everything — the worldwide panic around the virus strains, lockdowns, vaccines, and the confusion surrounding it all. To top it, the colossal task of raising a baby left me overwhelmed and, honestly, petrified.
The words are simple, yet it is such an important phrase to tell anyone that you are listening to them. It helps you communicate that you acknowledge and validate the other’s pain and emotions. It’s loud and clear — you are there and can relate to what they are going through. And, it’s enough. “This is so hard” just takes all the pressure off. It gives you a sense of comfort because you know you are not alone in your trials. It made me value the existence of a support group that makes me comfortable and, of course, happy.
The good part of this mayhem was that we were there for each other during these testing times and emerged out of the hellhole stronger. When someone goes through a rough patch, all they need are well-meaning and dependable friends and family. Undeniably, the most significant lesson learned during this lowest point of our lives was the value of empathy, acceptance, and appreciation.
How Can You Offer Support To A Parent Going Through Hard Times?
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Anyone can crumble under pressure, and parenting is no joke. When times are messy, even a simple text or call can make us forget our pains, at least temporarily. So, when you find people around you dealing with challenges, remember that empathy is a powerful motivator. Here are some thoughtful phrases that will help you offer your support to struggling new parents:
1. “You’ve Got This”
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Remind them of their strengths. Talk to them about things that set them apart from everyone else. Mirror their goodness. Sometimes, people often forget who they are or what makes them so unique. Help them help themselves by tuning in to their strengths. After all, that’s what friends are for?
2. “How Can I Help You?”
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Go the extra mile by showing your openness to offer help. Tell them that they can reach out to you whenever they need, that you are ready to accompany them to doctor visits, babysit on weekends, or simply run some errands and divvy up household chores. You may also consider sending them small gifts or tokens of appreciation.
3. “This Too Shall Pass.”
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Nothing is permanent. As cliche as it may sound, it is true. The present times could be rough, and there isn’t a solution at sight but remind them that change is the only constant. Yes, their concerns are valid, but the big picture should help them look forward to better times and gain more strength to thrive.
4. “I Am Not Leaving You.”
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Speak about how they were there for you in the past when you battled your difficulties. Tell them that you remember the unconditional support they offered despite the adversities they personally dealt with. Let them know that you too will stick through the rough patch with them, no matter what. This will boost their confidence to navigate through their tribulations courageously.
5. “You Are My Priority.”
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Telling someone they are important is a great source of comfort and strength when fighting a difficult hour. That you would leave everything behind to hold them, wipe their tears and cheer them up imparts a sense of belongingness to those undergoing a hard time.
6. “I Am Proud Of You.”
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Appreciate them for dealing with their obstacles and set time aside to catch up with them. It will really comfort someone to know that their efforts are appreciated and that there are people who think highly of them. It’s always nice to see that you have people that root for you.
Everyone has a period of trouble. More often than not, a few words of encouragement are all it takes to give someone the strength they need to get through tough times. When you are there at someone’s darkest, you can make a positive impact in their life for eternity, undoubtedly. Words are powerful, sometimes, even more than actions. Do you agree? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
