Robert Hunter offers practical insight into how to be a friend to someone in crisis. He contends that to focus on change, an emphasis on the future, a respect for people, and faith in God are all crucial in the helping process. Anyone experiencing hurt over a major loss, illness, or injury needs, in his opinion, to hear four key messages: you are not alone; your feelings matter; all is not lost; and you can still help yourself. To this end, he sets out fourteen fundamental skills which the helper can use in effectively communicating these messages to the person in crisis.
