I'd Like Some Help, Please

So I have a boyfriend with a really rough life. Tonight was especially bad. Whenever he texts me about something bad happening, I call him. I figure it'd be easier to cheer him up if I'm actually talking to him, plus I have a nosy dad who might creep through my phone and see texts. He doesn't need to know about my boyfriend's personal business.
Anyway, getting to the point, once I call him I have no clue what to say. I can only think of stupid little things like "I love you" and "it'll be okay" and stuff. But really, none of that really helps. We all know that. I'm just really bad at phrasing my thoughts.
So. Here's where you all come in. How do you cheer up your loved ones when they're upset? Could you give me some ideas? I really want to be more helpful to him.
Thank you! =)