How do you know when someone wants advice, or emotional support?

Damned if I know. I’m terrible at spotting either. With my wife, at least, I make a point to ask, “Are we venting or do we want solutions?”

If it’s venting, I just listen and try to be supportive.

If it’s solutions, I offer multiple options, which are all ultimately ignored.

You ask them which they want.

Better to just ask them.

You can say “I’m here for you, whatever you need.”

I think for the most part people want emotional support. They want someone to listen, understand or commiserate with. Husbands have been known to be guilty of giving advise to wives who only wanted them to listen, not fix their problems.

People who seek advice usually ask it.