6 Practical ways to help a friend with a broken heart

Here are some heartfelt ways you can be use to a friend in a moment of emotional crisis.

Help Aleteia continue its mission by making a tax-deductible donation. In this way, Aleteia's future will be yours as well.

Donate with just 3 clicks

*Your donation is tax deductible!

Today finding love isn’t easy. While some people can meet their true love in high school, others really struggle to find “the one” and often rely on online dating to help. Therefore it’s easy to imagine the pain a person might feel when they’ve been left with a broken heart and feel that they’ll always be single.

When a dear friend is grappling with a broken heart, offering support becomes an essential gesture. As a Catholic, incorporating elements of compassion, understanding, and faith into your approach can provide solace. Here are six heartfelt ways to accompany your friend on their journey to healing:

Extend a sympathetic ear

Be a compassionate listener, allowing your friend to express their feelings freely. Offer comfort by acknowledging their pain and assuring them that their emotions are valid. Sharing a quiet moment of prayer together can deepen the connection.

Invoke divine comfort

Encourage your friend to seek solace in prayer and contemplation. Suggest attending Mass together or spending time in a peaceful church setting. Remind them that faith can serve as a powerful source of comfort and resilience during challenging times.

Deliver uplifting messages

Share inspirational scriptures or uplifting passages from the Bible that align with the themes of love, healing, and renewal. A thoughtful note or card with a heartfelt message can provide a tangible reminder of your unwavering support.

Create a nurturing environment

Foster an atmosphere of serenity and positivity. Arrange a cozy evening at home with comforting activities such as watching a wholesome movie, enjoying a warm cup of tea, or engaging in a creative endeavor. Surround your friend with love and positive energy.

Encourage acts of self-love

Gently nudge your friend toward self-care practices that align with Catholic values. Suggest spending time in reflection, attending spiritual retreats, or volunteering for charitable causes. Reinforce the idea that self-love is an essential part of the healing process.

Initiate social support

Organize gatherings with close-knit friends or members of your faith community. Foster an environment where your friend can share experiences, laughter, and mutual support. Strengthening social connections can be instrumental in healing a broken heart.

In times of heartache, drawing upon the strength of faith and community can provide a resilient foundation for recovery. By embracing these suggestions, you can be a guiding light in your friend’s journey toward healing and renewal.