top of page

Guide

lsn FINAL_edited.png

The

High Fives

How to be an active listener

... because mental health challenges are not always heard

Sometimes all it takes is being open to listening to someone else's problem 
Support your friends by following The Lsn Guide to active listening

attention 1_edited.png

STAY FOCUSED

Listen until the end, set aside distracting thoughts and focus on that person and what they are saying

LOOK INTERESTED

Show the person you’re listening to them through body language, eye contact and posture

TIMING

Talk when you feel the time is right. Talk to the person about what they have just spoken to you about and ask appropriate questions if needed

OPEN QUESTIONS

Involve yourself in the conversation by asking questions once they are finished speaking - giving relevant stories or experiences will also show your support

SUMMARISE

Restate the core themes raised - continue to query, guide, and offer, but don’t dictate a solution, it is more effective if someone can find a solution on their own

EMPATHISE

Put yourself in other people's shoes and avoid critical phrases such as 'just calm down'. Use non-verbal responses like nodding your head to show you are listening

bottom of page