Here's how to support someone you love with a little help from social media

If you think your loved one needs a helping word online to get out of a tricky situation, here's how to do it right.

It's tough seeing someone you love in a bit of a tough spot. Especially when they're in a fight or legal battle or just facing willful attacks from someone else. And in times today, social media is the easiest way to get under someone's skin -quickly. Here's how to support someone you love with a little help from social media.

Get online

The bad news is that malicious posts, tweets and statements posted online will have the maximum reach. The good news is that your supportive comments will also be read widely if you take it online. So, refrain from individually telling people your side of the story and just log on. It will be easier and more effective than trying to get heard in the real world.

Word play

Take your time to compose what you plan to say. Remember, don't ramble on and stick to the talking points.

Start off with how you know the person, then touch upon the difficulty they are facing and finally, with comments. The reason why a well-worded statement is more effective than a video is because you can control your emotion and read through it multiple times before deeming it perfect for the rest of the world to see.

Do it once

There's no need to issue statement after statement to make your point. Do it once and then walk away. Compulsively tweeting or posting in defense of a loved one can actually have negative repercussions, making it seem like your friend is guilty and that's why you are actively trying to change people's opinions. Also, the substance of your comments can get diluted with every passing comment, so it's best to limit your justification to just one well-worded comment.

Check up on it

Before posting anything, do check with your loved one if it is advisable or okay to do so. There could be legal issues or a bigger issue that they don't want to get into if you post something online. Or, they could simply want the problem to vanish and will not appreciate you bringing any more attention on the topic. Check with your friend or family member before posting anything and run the content by them so that they are prepared.

Haters gonna hate

Remember that once you post something, it's out there.

And you're going to have to have the time and energy to deal with the consequences -especially the haters. If your loved one is involved in a controversy, be prepared to get a lot of backlash But don't succumb to answering them or feeding into the narrative. They will target your emotional connection and will try to break you down. Save yourself the emotional drama and do not reply. If you must, just log off for a few days.