i've had a good number of friends say i'm kinda good at comforting 😇😇 but it mostly depends on who's fronting and how much energy i have available to put effort into figuring out the kind of comfort someone needs ...which lately i've been lacking, so it was probably better 2-3 years ago

i avoid aiming to make them "feel happier" or solving their problems for them if not asked for. focusing more on making the scenario flow into them either venting out or processing whatever's hurting them, which in turn helps me also understand what they're feeling. only after that do i attempt to lift their mood or suggest solutions. when it comes to reassurance, i can only provide that for close friends i know well enough, otherwise i wouldn't know what to say. if alternatively they don't want to face emotions, i can help with the distraction route a bit too. also sometimes just quietly being there for them, and making them feel like you are there with them through it can help without the need for grand words or actions. your willingness to listen, understanding, and presence matter more. at least that's what i know works from information i've gathered through the years