What is the first question to ask someone before offering support?

The first question to ask someone before offering support is crucial for ensuring that the individual feels safe and respected. By inquiring whether your support is welcome, you are prioritizing the recipient's autonomy and emotional state. This approach acknowledges that they may not desire assistance at that moment or may prefer to handle the situation independently. It creates an environment where the person feels empowered to express their needs without feeling pressured or obligated to accept help.

This sensitivity is essential in fostering trust and open communication, which are foundational components of effective support. Understanding that everyone's circumstances are different encourages a personalized approach to offering help. Once it's confirmed that your support is welcome, you can proceed to discuss specific needs or ways to assist them further. This order of questioning enhances the overall effectiveness of the support being offered.