Hard to know what to do

[mavisbramston]

Hard to know what one should do when you see someone crying in a cafe or train. I saw a lady sitting alone on the train crying. I decided she wanted to be left alone.

[Perrorist]

Yes, tricky. I say, "Are you okay?", which is a stupid question, and if they don't engage I leave them alone. Same when they say "Yes". Come to think of it, no-one's ever said "No". I hate to see people unhappy, unless they're conservative politicians.

[kfchugo]

Years ago, one might have been seen as a good samaritan trying to help if you engaged a distressed person in conversation. Times have changed and I would suggest that these days, it would be more sensible to simply mind your own business.

[mavisbramston]

Yes, tricky. I say, "Are you okay?", which is a stupid question, and if they don't engage I leave them alone. Same when they say "Yes". Come to think of it, no-one's ever said "No". I hate to see people unhappy, unless they're conservative politicians.

How can any one top that

[Dreamweaver]

Not a stupid question. Gives the option for them to say 'Yes' and leave it there, or say ' Yes. It's just that .... etc'

[Slapsy]

I was in the local pub one day when an old bloke,with a walking stick,fell over. Two patrons rushed in to help him up,but one was hit across the side of his head with the stick,and the old bloke yelling to leave him alone. Ever since,I have been reluctant to help anyone until requested.

[Perrorist]

Reminds me of an old fellow I saw step in front of a bus. I just managed to grab hold of him and pull him away. All I got for my trouble was a mouthful of abuse.

[Dreamweaver]

I was foolish enough to try to wheel my walker through revolving doors, as they were large. Went for six, of course. This was at a hospital, and the receptionist was telling people to leave me alone, but people were insisting on getting me up. I really needed to just stay there until I got my breath back!

[Dreamweaver]

Introverts will not want to talk, might think you're intruding, (or might be grateful for a simple enquiry.)
Extroverts will want to talk, may see you as cold and disinterested if you ignore their state.

So you can't win!
Your own reaction will depend on how much you are yourself intro- or extrovert.

[Perrorist]

I'm an introvert, but I hate to see people unhappy.

[Dreamweaver]

How would you personally react if you were visibly upset and someone asked you if you were okay?

You can be borderline, like me!
The one crucial question is, I think, "When you're feeling flat, do you best recharge your batteries
(a) alone or in the company of just one friend,
or
(b) in a social setting?"

[Perrorist]

(a), except I rarely feel flat and when I do it passes quickly.