It was the help he got from his friends which . . . . . . . . him through the tragedy.

The correct answer is: D. supported

The other options are:

• A. helped – This is a more general word than “supported” and does not specifically convey the idea of being there for someone through a difficult time.
• B. boosted – This word suggests giving someone a temporary increase in energy or confidence, which is not what is happening in this situation.
• C. perked – This word means to make someone more cheerful or lively, which is also not what is happening in this situation.
• E. sustained – This word means to keep someone going or to provide them with the strength to continue, which is what the friends are doing for the person who has experienced a tragedy.

In conclusion, the correct answer is “supported” because it is the only option that specifically conveys the idea of being there for someone through a difficult time.