How to: Save a life

How to: Save a life 

"And I would've stayed up with you all night had I known how to save a life "

We have all probably had the rhythm of this song blaring through our ears but now exactly do you save a life? What do you say or do to give someone the hope, desire and will to keep on going?

How do you save a life?

1. Be there shoulder to cry on. Often, its not abut the things you say, you need to do is listen. If someone wants to let it all out and break down, just let them cry in your arms and don't listen with the intention to respond but just listen for the sake of hearing them out. Sometimes, all someone needs is to know that there is at least one person out there who cares.

2. Don't judge. We are mere human beings and we do not have the right to judge others. If you really want to help someone, carry yourself in such a way that the person believes your opinion of them will not change if they come clean in front of you.

3. Do not make a bad thing worse. There is no point in adding more negativity, if the ice cream is already melting, why put it in front of the heater?

4. Do not sugar coat the situation either. Say it like it is, do not give someone false expectations but do give them some hope.

5. Confidentially. If you are going to be there for someone, do not break their trust.

6. You can't be an optimist or pessimist. You have to be a realist. You must maintain the integrity of the situation.

7. Show them you care and that you are not going anywhere.