Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.

47,612Members
1,358,869Posts
1,400,000Visitors

The difference between sympathy and empathy

kristinSenior Contributor20 Jan 2015, 9:37 am AEDT

The difference between sympathy and empathy

Dear all,

I found this blog post this morning and thought I would post the link here. The context is in the loss of a child (so potential trigger warning for those who are similarly bereaved), but I feel what she says is completely applicable to Mi as well.

So what do others feel? My sense is that sympathy enables the other person to feel better about not engaging with your pain, empathy does engage with your pain.

Kindest regards,

Kristin

1 reply

1 - 1 of 1

In response to: The difference between sympathy and empathy

Unknown userMember21 Jan 2015, 1:34 pm AEDT

Re: The difference between sympathy and empathy

-

1 - 1 of 1

SANE Forums is published by SANE with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health.

SANE Forums does not provide crisis support.
If you need immediate assistance, please see available crisis services.

Learn more about SANE and SANE services at sane.org

Aboriginal flag

Torres Strait Islander flag

Transgender flag

SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

Aboriginal flag

Torres Strait Islander flag

Transgender flag

SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.