‘Everything will be fine’ may come from a caring place. It can also promise an outcome you cannot know. When someone is worried about an uncertain situation, a more grounded response can be both warm and honest.
Start with what you can offer. ‘I can sit with you while you work through the options’ describes support you control. ‘You’ve prepared carefully, and I’m here if you want to practise once more’ acknowledges effort without predicting the result.
Listen for what needs reassurance. Is the person worried about being alone, not knowing the next step or disappointing someone? You may be able to address one of those concerns even when the larger outcome remains uncertain.
Avoid making their worry into a problem they must quickly stop having. ‘Don’t overthink it’ can close the conversation before you understand what is making the situation difficult.
A useful response might be: ‘I can see why the uncertainty is hard. Do you want to go through what you know so far?’
The next time you write reassurance, check each promise. If it concerns an outcome outside your control, replace it with something concrete: attention, practical help, an accurate fact or a next step the person has chosen.