How do I respond when someone vents?

"Enough get a hold of yourself"[image deleted]

Try to remember that venting is different than a discussion. Most people don't want answers or advice. They just want to get it out. Sometimes it's OK if it's a close friend or partner. And then you listen and just let them know you're there. But some people just love dumping their stuff on others. So you have to consider the source. Personally, I don't have a whole lot of patience for that. I think it's selfish and unfair to the recipient. Those folks need to learn to handle their own shit.

Who says you have to say anything? Listen and empathize. That's your task.

Let them vent.

Say nothing.

Till they ask.

Then you just nod.

And if they cry,

Just give them a hug.

You can thank them for sharing and just share what you felt within yourself.

Don't give opinions.

You can also motivate them if you think you are using the words in right sense.

Let Non-verbals do it better. Heart the vented expression to let them know they are heard, only if the vent is not sounding like any drama.

yeah it can be pretty awkward. I feel like it's easier in person because most of the time your presence is enough and you can like, rub their back or something lol. but online it's super difficult to come up with something to say that doesn't sound like you're trying to fix their issues.

Sometimes all they need is a person to bounce thins off of..srhetorical. Depending on the situation, a simple hug can help.

The best is to just give them your time listening.

Who says that you have to respond?

you say what you honestly believe, there's no good to come from projecting yourself as a person to vent to if it isn't natural for you

Just nod and tell them that you hear them.

You just active listen