SHUSH
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Listening Tips from Samaritans: SHUSH Method
Understanding the SHUSH Method
Simple Tips for Effective Listening
At Samaritans, we use the SHUSH method to help anyone become a better listener:
- Show you care: Demonstrate empathy and focus on the person.
- Have patience: Allow the person to speak at their own pace.
- Use open questions: Encourage them to expand on their thoughts and feelings.
- Summarise and reflect: Repeat back what they've said to show understanding.
- Have courage: Be comfortable with silence, allowing them time to express themselves.
Applying SHUSH in Conversation
Practical Techniques Anyone Can Use
These techniques are straightforward and can be applied naturally in any conversation:
- Start with caring gestures and maintain eye contact.
- Ask open-ended questions like "How are you?" to encourage dialogue.
- Reflect back what they say to show you're listening and understand.
- Be patient and comfortable with pauses, allowing them time to formulate their thoughts.
Using the SHUSH method isn't complicated; it's about showing genuine interest and creating a supportive space for meaningful conversations.