Friend in chronic stress

[Modip]

I have a friend who owns her own business with her husband. She is working every hour of every day, with no time off. She says each day she feels no further forward. I can tell she is really struggling, and when I said I was worried for her she burst into tears. She is exhausted and feels like there is no light at the end of the tunnel and no let up. I don’t know how to help her (or even if I can). Does anyone have any ideas to help someone who is reaching burnout? Also, I’d love any ideas to support her, cheer her up or show her I love her and am thinking of her!
Thanks in advance

Hopeful little bump!

The work situation is obviously out of her control. I think the best thing you can do is to be there for her in whatever way is most helpful to her - that could mean talking if she's ready to talk, or it could mean doing something to take her mind off things. Wee things like just sending a message regularly to show you're thinking of her (doesn't need to be about anything much!), even if she doesn't reply. It sounds like the time when she'll need to talk to someone is approaching so I think making clear to her you're there for her if/when that time comes is all you can do. If she doesn't want to talk, might also be worth checking whether there's anywhere else she would feel more comfortable speaking (for some people setting can make a big difference). Unfortunately it needs to be her that starts turning things around for herself, but it sounds like she is very lucky to have a friend like you to help on that journey!

@Hakunamatata91 thank you so much for your reply. It feels hard to give support at the moment with the enforced distance and it is such a worry to see my wonderful friend struggling! Sending her flowers tomorrow and encouraging her to take some breaks however small.

Honestly, don't underestimate how much being there can do, even if its in a different way to normal circumstances. Even if you can't physically see each other, its your friend just knowing you are there for which is what will really make a difference (even if its not always immediately obvious to you!). She really is lucky to have you :)