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How can I effectively empathize with people who have had different traumatic experiences than me?

Profile: Flutist34086
Flutist34086 on Mar 1, 2015
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Effectively empathizing with individuals with different traumatic experiences than me means to listen with respect and compassion. Making sure that I suggest a referral to services that can help them when appropriate.
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Profile: ArtChoosestheArtist
ArtChoosestheArtist on Mar 4, 2015
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I have learned that while an experience may be different than my own, often times the feelings behind those experiences are the same or similar. If I can relate to a person's feelings, than I find it easier to be supportive.
Profile: HealingLotus
HealingLotus on Apr 21, 2015
Domestic Violence Expert
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Understanding pain in general should be enough. It doesn't matter the type of pain, but knowing pain.
Profile: kashu510
kashu510 on May 19, 2015
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To effectively empathize with people who have different experiences as you, you have to be open minded and understanding of the different circumstances and try to understand where the individual is coming from.
Profile: creativeApple52
creativeApple52 on Jun 16, 2015
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Tell them that I know they must be going through a very hard time and that I am here to listen to them.
Profile: Riss8456
Riss8456 on Jul 13, 2015
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Empathising is just listening and putting yourself in their perspective. You do not have to understand how they feel directly, it is enough to be there to listen and provide support.
Profile: PoliteOcean
PoliteOcean on Aug 25, 2015
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The only thing you can really do is just listen and be there for them. A way to empathize is placing yourself in their shoes and imagining how you would feel if you were in their shoes.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Sep 29, 2015
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Although you may not be able to relate directly to a traumatic event that someone else has experienced you can effectively empathize by putting yourself in their situation. Instead of trying to identify with the specific situation, identify with their feelings.
Profile: blazingwolf
blazingwolf on Oct 25, 2015
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Share about each other. Learn about one another!
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Feb 21, 2016
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Hear them out, exchange stories, and try to put yourself in their shoes. Ask questions and express a genuine interest in their experiences.
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