Sometimes clarity is kinder than reassurance.

Reassurance can be a way of avoiding a difficult moment at the other person’s expense. Telling someone it will be fine when you do not think so leaves them without the information they need, and the kindness is mostly to yourself for not having to deliver it.

When you are tempted to reassure, ask what they actually need: comfort or clarity. Sometimes it genuinely is comfort. When it is clarity, give it plainly and stay with them afterwards. Clear and accompanied is usually kinder than vague and comfortable.