Caring about people is something we all do in our own way. We all have different ways to show we care, and we all have those moments where we just don’t – don’t worry too much, we all get a bit of compassion and empathy fatigue from time to time!
In the modern day and age, we tend to show more and more the caring side of ourselves. We let people in more often, and encourage them to do the same. We like to sit down and have a good and honest conversation with people we know and love, and they always clear the air and make us feel a lot lighter and more in touch with one another. And these are all great things to do! But sometimes, we don’t have the time or the energy to complete caring tasks like these.
Sometimes they start to become a routine we get tired and bored of, or we just have conflicting schedules and never quite get around to giving your Mum a call back. And that just makes us feel worse! So here’s some more subtle ways we can show someone just how much we care, without putting a heavy burden on ourselves.
You won’t need a first aid box for any of these ideas, but they are all quicker fixes in the same way a bandage is. (Image)
Be a Little More Tactile
Being tactile is something we forget about unless we’re already incredibly touchy-feely people who love a cuddle! But when you see one of your relatives upset, or your friend has just broken up with a partner of theirs, it’d be a good idea to wade in and open up your arms.
People always need to know they have someone who cares about them around them in a time like this, and even if you can’t help beyond a hug, it’s always going to be a stabilising action for you to do for someone. Of course, be sure to ask if the person you’re meaning to hug isn’t really much of a hugger, but there’s a good chance the answer is going to be yes!
Help Research Their Healthcare Options
Healthcare is something we all need to rely on, at most points in our lives. We have checkups to go to, to be sure our systems are all functioning normally and any problems are caught early on. We have vaccinations and booster shots to keep up with, to make sure we’re protected against the worst mother nature has to offer. We go to the doctor with symptoms we’re worried about, just to be sure a professional is always weighing in on our worrying. It’s a normal part of life, but it’s also a great way to show someone you’re thinking about them, and that you care a lot about them.
If someone you know and love has recently been through the mill with an illness or a disability, or they’re in a recovery period and seem to be struggling with their progress, you can reach out on their behalf. You can contact the relevant authorities and find out the numbers and addresses you need to call on. You can sit down with your loved one and work out what they want from the healthcare that’s available to them, and you can do some research for them into making these wants come to fruition. Anything from stroke recovery and all its up and downs, to just being able to walk without falling over for five to ten minutes, can be a problem helped by a healthcare provider out there.
Write Them Something
If you’re someone who loves putting pen to paper, or finger to keyboard, then now would be a good time to sit down and get your thoughts and feelings out there. Whether it’s in the shape of a letter, a birthday or get well soon card, or you’re sending an email just to catch up with someone you haven’t seen for a long time, the key is to be genuine and honest with what you have to say.
This shows you’ve taken time out of your day to cater to someone else’s feelings, and that means you care about them. It’s always nice to receive something in the post, or an email that has some real substance to it, so it’s always going to be a great action on your part.
If you’re looking for more ways to show you care, use the subtle methods first of all.
Feature Image Photo by Akshar Dave on Unsplash
