Helped, Heard, or Hugged? Understanding the true intentions behind what somebody needs when they express themselves

Learn how to recognize whether someone wants help, to be heard, or to receive emotional support when they post online, and respond in a way that fosters empathy and connection.

Hi friends,

Did you know that most people don’t actually want to be helped when they share their thoughts online? It might sound surprising, but simply acknowledging someone’s feelings can often be more supportive than offering unsolicited advice. Scrolling through your social media feed, you might find that a simple “that sucks” can be more comforting than an attempt to fix their problem.

In the digital age, social media has become a virtual town square where we share our victories, struggles, and day-to-day experiences. As an author and entrepreneur, I frequently post insights from my professional journey and personal reflections. These posts are intended to share my story, not to solicit advice. Yet, well-meaning followers often flood the comments with suggestions, missing the mark on what I actually need.

This isn’t unique to me, either. I see it all the time where the intention behind somebody’s post is misunderstood.

They might be looking for validation, empathy, or just a space t…