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Understanding Empathy vs Sympathy - Samaritans' Perspective

Empathy in Supporting Others

Empathy defined:

At Samaritans, we emphasise empathy over sympathy in our approach to supporting individuals:

  • We listen attentively and seek to understand the person's experiences.
  • Our role is to empathise with their feelings and perspectives.
  • We create a safe space for them to share their thoughts and emotions.
  • Empathy allows us to connect without assuming we fully understand their pain.

The Difference Between Empathy and Sympathy

Key distinctions:

  • Empathy: Involves listening and seeking to understand without assuming shared experiences.
  • Sympathy: Involves acknowledging another's feelings based on shared experiences or understanding.

Our volunteers provide empathic support by encouraging dialogue and offering a listening ear, ensuring individuals feel heard and supported during their time of need.