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.