In your friendships/relationships, I think it’s important to ask the other person how they like to be comforted. Much like the love languages, everyone responds differently to certain actions during times of stress. Some may like advice or words of affirmation while others may need a hug or someone to just nod and listen. Asking them how they want to be comforted shows that you care about them and want them to feel acknowledged when they’re upset.
Emotional neglect can take many forms, from a parent having unrealistically high expectations or not listening attentively, to invalidating a child’s emotional experiences to the point he or she begins to feel self-doubt.