Setting Boundaries as a Supporter
Launch library · evergreen read
Boundaries as a supporter might mean limiting how much time you can give, or being honest when you need a break from a heavy conversation. This is worth treating as seriously as the support you give to others. This is a habit worth building before it feels genuinely necessary. It is worth protecting, even when everything else feels urgent right now.
Communicating these boundaries kindly, rather than disappearing without explanation, keeps trust intact while still protecting your own wellbeing over the long run. This is worth prioritising, not treating as an afterthought to everything else. It matters whether the role is formal or simply personal and unpaid. This holds true whatever kind of support role someone happens to be in.
1800RESPECT is on 1800 737 732, and Lifeline is on 13 11 14, both available any hour for supporters working through this. There is no need to have the right words ready before you call. Every call is treated with genuine care, whatever the reason behind it. It is completely okay to take things one small step at a time.