In fact, the same person's needs will vary from one week to the next. That's why friends can help just by inviting the person out for a cup of coffee, a movie or a weekend at the beach. If the person just wants to have fun, great. If he or she wants to talk, listen. That's dangerous territory, according to experts and lay people.
Friends also have to know their own limits.
Sharing someone's emotional burden can become overwhelming. Friends may get caught in the crossfire of a bitter breakup. And sometimes couples find that dealing with friends' divorce puts stress on their own marriage. If that happens, don't just disappear, says Kahn, the United Family Services therapist. And consider recommending a support group or counselor.