How to Help a Friend Cope With an Abortion

Watching a friend make such an important decision with such definite consequences is very stressful in and of itself. Yet, you have to remember that it is not about you. Your friend needs your support in this time more than ever before. The decision isn’t easy for someone to make in any way, shape or form. While there is no one set way for you to help your friend cope through the decision, here are some ways that you can try to make the situation a bit easier.

Instructions

1. Let your friend scream, cry, complain and express her feelings about the abortion. There are so many feelings that your friend may not understand, and she needs to work through them with you by her side.

2. Suggest that your friend talk to a professional. Sometimes just talking to a friend or family member may not be enough. Instead of just suggesting that they talk to someone, have a list of numbers and names of reputable and researched professionals who are qualified to deal with this sort of crisis.

3. Give your friend space if she asks for it. Don’t force your friend to talk to you, and don’t be insulted if she doesn’t want to talk with you.

4. Get your friend to do some fun activities. She may not want to leave her home, but she needs to have an option for something that will help take her mind off of it. Some people need permission to have fun again after going through something traumatic. Whether it's staying in or going out, make sure to try to help your friend have some fun.

5. Be there to talk, no matter what time of day it is. Be available even in difficult times if possible. You may have a small window where your friend absolutely needs to talk to you. Let her know that she has a friend in you, and prove it by being there.

6. Encourage her to join a support group for people who have had an abortion. Find locations and times for support groups in the area, and go with your friend if she needs you. It could do her some good to be around others who have been through the same thing.

7. Help her ease back into the real world by helping to bring humor to her day. Make her laugh when possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Be brave when talking to your friend about abortion. You need to find a thin line between blunt honesty and comforting words.

• Don't preach to your friend if you disagree with the decision that she has made. You can have a thorough discussion about it in the future, but your friends needs your heart right now.