January is often a challenging time of year. With the festive season behind us and shorter days, feelings of disconnection and low mood can surface. This is why Brew Monday, created by the Samaritans, is so important. It reminds us to slow down, connect, and check in with the people we care about—often over a simple cup of tea.
At The Eaves, we understand the profound impact that listening can have, particularly when someone is struggling. That’s why we’re sharing the SHUSH listening technique—a practical tool to help you support others.
What is the SHUSH Listening Technique?
The SHUSH technique, developed by the Samaritans, is designed to help people become better listeners. Listening, when done actively and attentively, can provide a lifeline to someone who feels unheard or alone. Here’s how it works:
- Show you care
Give the person your full attention by setting aside distractions. Nonverbal cues like eye contact and an open posture convey that you’re fully present. - Have patience
Allow the conversation to unfold naturally. Silence is okay—it can give someone the time and space to articulate their thoughts and feelings. - Use open questions
Encourage the person to share more by asking questions like, “How are you feeling about that?” or “What’s been on your mind lately?” - Say it back
Reflect and paraphrase what they’ve said to show understanding. For example, “It sounds like you’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately.” - Hold back on advice
Focus on listening without immediately trying to fix the problem. Sometimes, simply feeling heard is enough to make a difference.
Why Listening Matters
Research consistently highlights the importance of human connection in promoting mental health and wellbeing. By practicing active listening, you’re creating a safe and supportive space where someone feels valued and understood.
Brew Monday is the perfect opportunity to put this into practice. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, reaching out and actively listening could provide comfort to someone in need.
Professional Mental Health Support
While heartfelt conversations can make a big difference, there are times when professional help is necessary. At The Eaves, we provide high-quality psychological care delivered by experienced counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychologists.
For over 20 years, we’ve supported individuals, couples, children, and families in Surrey and beyond. With therapy rooms in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, and Haslemere, as well as online therapy options, we are committed to making mental health support accessible.
Contact us today to find a therapist who can help.
References and Further Reading
- Samaritans: Brew Monday Campaign
- Mind: The Importance of Listening for Mental Health
- Human Connection Research: Standford Education Research
The Eaves Counselling and Psychology
The Eaves Counselling and Psychology Ltd is a select professional body of Counsellors, Psychotherapists and Psychologists, providing high quality psychological care Monday to Saturday between 9am and 9pm from our practices in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, Haslemere and online.
Find your practitioner in five easy steps
Are you a business owner or would like more support from your job? The Eaves’ own Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) service for small to medium businesses is easy, affordable and gives staff instant access to our large team of in-house Counsellors and Psychologists at a time and date to suit them. Contact us to find out more about our EAP service
If you need immediate support please find our list of useful contacts