A new baby, an unexpected diagnosis, a move, a loss...all of these life events can cause extreme stress. When a family member or friend is in need, whether it's a happy or sad event, sometimes it can be difficult to figure out how you can best offer your support.

While any type support has good intentions, there are several things you can consider to ensure your help goes a long way.  A good rule is to offer specific help and avoid vague offers, such as "Call me if you need anything."

Goop.com has put together a helpful list of different ways in which you can provide support that will make a difference.

Ease the burden by taking daily tasks off your friend's hands: make dinner, do laundry, house an out-of-town guest, offer to babysit or sit with an elderly loved one.

Pamper your loved one: give a gift card for a massage or at-home beauty treatment, send a nice new set of pajamas.

Remind your friend she's in your thoughts: send her chocolates or cookies, a specific-situation book.

Life events and stressful situations, whether good or bad, hopefully bring support from friends and family, so the person going through the event could benefit from some nice thank you cards, too.

No matter how you choose to offer help or support, the fact that you are is the most important thing!