By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
At times, we feel no one sees us, and sometimes that’s okay. It’s normal and even healthy to occasionally be in an uncomfortable place. Situations that cause us to think, feel, and analyze help us to grow and change into better people. The reasons are plentiful: left out of a social situation, belittled by family, bullied by others, overlooked in our careers, and the list goes on. But when the feelings of insecurity shove a person into an emotional low, self-esteem takes a critical blow and could lead to depression.
We can help those who are suffering by identifying those factors that contribute to their feelings. Our goal is to support them as they overcome emotional hurdles. But how do we offer assistance that is healthy for all those concerned?
Here are 5 ways we can genuinely reach out to those who feel invisible.
- Friendship – The person needs sympathy and understanding. When we listen, even though we might detect a mental issue, the person realizes someone cares. The person is no longer invisible, because we see him/her.
- Loyalty – A person who feels invisible craves someone who is reliable. Ask yourself if you can be the 24/7 on-call friend.
- Research – We can educate ourselves on the causes and solutions of why the person feels invisible. Once we gain the person’s confidence, we’re able to guide them to healing and suggest counseling if needed.
- Hope – Every person in the world craves hope, the ability to see and expect a better tomorrow. Pray for the victim, not only for healing but for yourself to be an instrument of God’s love.
- Support – Not every person requires professional counseling, but the support of a caring individual encourages the sufferer to see themselves in the light of a better future.
Feeling as though no one knows, cares, or sees us can set the stage for addictive behavior and depression. Can you be that someone to offer compassion?
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DiAnn’s Library Corner
Library Tip: Create a friendship display, pointing patrons to media about how to be a friend and enriching fiction and non-fiction about those special relationships.
