Stand By Your Family

Before delving into the topic, it's crucial to refrain from passing judgments on those who might have an inside view of the Enoch tragedy. Standing by your family is not just advice for those trying to support a family member dealing with mental health issues or toxic relationships; it's equally vital for the victims in these situations. The victims need to know they are not alone and should stand by their family, allowing them into the situation. After all, family members can't address something they are unaware of.

Broaden Your View of What Family Is

If it takes a village to raise a family, it takes a village to support and reinforce it during challenging times. The concept of a "nuclear" family can be expanded to include friends, neighbors, co-workers, and parents of children's friends. In today's more reclusive society, it's essential to recognize the value of community support, as demonstrated in instances like basements flooding in Draper and how communities come together.

Action: Take inventory of who you consider your family and who is there for you. Identify your go-to people, and if you don't have any, start finding them. Communicate your reliance on them and express your commitment to reciprocal support.

Trust the Emotions You See, Not the Words They Say

In challenging times, people often claim to be "fine" or that they'll get through it. Many individuals may not be completely honest about their struggles due to fear or feeling unsafe.

Action: Pay attention to the emotional cues and inconsistencies between what someone says and how they feel. Address the incongruence, express concern, and ask directly about their well-being. Building trust requires acknowledging and validating emotions.

Stabilize the Unstable With Outside Experts

Like a three-legged stool is more stable than a two-legged one, bringing in outside experts can stabilize conflicts or concerns about well-being. In mental health, marriage stability, or physical safety, involving professionals such as therapists, doctors, attorneys, or police officers can create stability.

Action: Use every available method to get help for the individual or couple. Ensure the safety of those who can't leave and consider interventions when necessary.

Be Willing To Say Or Do The Hard Thing

Transparency about relationship challenges is crucial for seeking help. In severely unstable relationships, threats may arise to prevent disclosure to others.

Action: Be a confidant or strong support for people in your life. Protect those who can't protect themselves by taking the bold step of exposing the truth.

Resign Yourself to the Truth that Sometimes All You Can Do Isn't Enough

Despite sincere efforts, there are situations where individuals may not accept help. People have rights and agency, and sometimes they exercise these rights in challenging situations. Judging other families' situations is unwarranted; instead, focus on standing by your family and friends.

Reminder: Tragedies may not always indicate societal failure but could be the result of one person's choices and unwillingness to seek necessary help.