AUTHOR: Dr Susan Palmer
When someone we know is going through a tough time, it’s natural to want to help.
Many of us show that care by sending flowers or cooking a meal. And while those gestures come from a place of love, they don’t always meet the practical, day to day needs of someone who is struggling.
Often, what helps most isn’t the traditional response. It’s the practical support that quietly keeps life going.
Gather My Crew encourages people to think more broadly about how they can help. To pause and consider which actions will have the greatest impact for the person who needs support, right now.
Helping doesn’t need to involve a huge sacrifice. Small, thoughtful actions can make a big difference when they are well considered and matched to what someone actually needs.
A good place to start is by putting yourself in their shoes and asking, “What would help me in this situation?”
If they social isolated – think about a visit for a cup of tea.
If they are needing medical care – offer to take them to an appointment.
If they have young kids – suggest a play date or sleepover at your place to give them a rest.
If they have older kids – think about how you can help with the logistics of activities.
If they live next door – take their weekly bins out.
If you are a close friend or family member – offer to change the bed sheets!
Here are the top 10 help requests shared through the Gather My Crew app…
Come for a visit
Cook dinner
Transport to an appointment
Take kids to school
Do the laundry
Bake lunch snacks
Walk the dog
Make lunchboxes
Take the carer out
Arrange a playdate
Practical help, offered with thought and care, can turn a hard time into something more manageable. 💛
