I think `validation` here is carrying a lot of weight. Like anything, it can be acknowledged, or recognised, or seen...and then you act accordingly from there. Don't decide the priority for someone, just notice that they're dealing with something and say that you see it, and let them continue. Don't get pulled into the involvement or start colluding though, just keep it to what you see from the outside.

I feel like you can swap 'validation' with 'confirmation' and these responses will make more sense. "I see you're struggling with something," vs. "I agree, this is the problem."

edit: In fact, aaron-santos in a sibling post has a more succinct explanation, in terms of correctness.