It's usually easy to spot signs of distress in a family member or friend. You may notice things like low energy, excessive crying, or even an increase in physical symptoms like muscle cramps. After you realize someone you love needs help, Dr. Gerry and Dr. Peter suggest you check yourself first. Are there things from you past that may lead you to react in a certain way? Before entering into a discussion, try to remember that God loves both of you in that moment and is present to help. 

Dr. Peter Malinoski and Dr. Gerry Crete, co-founders of Souls and Hearts, talk about what the overall course is designed to do as well as what it’s not designed to do. You’ll also get a birds’ eye view of what will be coming up in future modules of the course, which includes self-care, general principles, situation assessment, listening and reflecting, effective affirmation, how to make a plan, what to say, and things to avoid. Finally, you’ll get to actually practice through role-playing exercises to help you prepare and build confidence.

 It’s tempting to try to analyze the problem, change bad feelings or just fix things for a loved one in distress. In this module, Dr. Peter Malinoski and Dr. Gerry Crete encourage you to slow down, stay calm, and simply focus on being with your distressed loved one instead of shifting to “doing” mode. By holding the present moment and protecting the space to allow others to feel and share what they are experiencing in a non-judgmental, humble and honest way, you’ll be providing a loving space for your family member or friend. 

Although many people want a checklist of things to do so they can jump right in to help, Dr. Peter Malinoski and Dr. Gerry Crete explain why you have to start with yourself. Although this module is not about becoming perfect first, it is about increasing the awareness of what you need to do to prepare yourself to be an instrument of God. It encourages you to embrace some basic self-care principles as well as to be introspective about why you react to distressing situations in the way that you do. Bringing some of these things to light in your own mind will better prepare you to help others.