Finding out that your friend is experiencing an unexpected pregnancy can leave you wondering how best to offer support.
While this time can be overwhelming for your friend and filled with a mix of emotions, including fear, uncertainty, and confusion, your role as a supportive friend can make all the difference in helping her navigate her feelings as she thinks through how to move forward.
Here are some meaningful ways you can be there for her:
1. Listen Without Judgment
One of the most important things you can do is simply listen. Your friend may feel scared or unsure about what to do next, and having someone who listens without offering immediate advice or judgment is invaluable. Allow her to share her thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly—and reassure her that you are there to support her no matter her decision.
2. Offer Emotional Support
An unexpected pregnancy can bring emotional challenges, and your friend may need someone to lean on. Be patient, understanding, and empathetic as she processes her feelings. Avoid pressuring her to make any decisions quickly and instead help her explore her feelings. Encourage her to take time to consider all her options, such as parenting, adoption, or abortion.
3. Help Her Find Resources
Offer to help your friend research resources that can provide further support. At Stillwater Life Services, we’re here to help. We offer a safe space where she can learn more about her pregnancy options, and we also provide free, limited ultrasounds—so she can have the information she needs to make a safe, informed decision.
4. Provide Practical Assistance
In addition to emotional support, your friend may need practical help. Offer to accompany her to medical appointments, help with transportation, or assist with organizing baby supplies if she chooses to parent. Practical gestures like preparing meals, running errands, or offering childcare for her other children (if applicable) can go a long way in easing her burden.
5. Respect Her Decision
Regardless of your friend’s decision, respect her choice and continue to be supportive. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is emotionally complex, and your ongoing presence in her life will help her feel empowered and less alone.
We’re Here for Her
Most importantly, it’s critical to help your friend know she’s not alone and that you’re here for her. And at Stillwater Life Services—we’re here for her, too.
Encourage your friend to contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help.