One in every five of us struggles with a mental illness. Meaning all of us have a family member or a loved one who lives with mental health problems. Whether they are a friend, a colleague, or a family member, if you’re worried that someone you know is going through a tough time, there are several ways to show your care and support for them.
1. Give them a safe zone to express themselves
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One of the most challenging steps to helping someone with a mental health issue may be just starting the conversation. Remember, you don’t have to be an expert or feel the need to come up with solutions to their problems.
Simply express your willingness to be there for them. Let them know that you’re there to listen if they want to talk about their struggles. Try to show patience and don’t be judgmental of their emotions, actions, or thoughts if they open up to you.
2. Encourage them to seek professional help
If they are hesitant in reaching out to a therapist to discuss their personal struggles, you can help make this necessary step easy for them.
Offer your help in making those first appointments with a psychotherapist. You can also accompany them to the doctor! If they let you come with them to the therapist, write down any questions or notes either of you have in advance so that you cover all the major points while discussing their mental health issues.
3. Equip yourself with the knowledge of mental health issues
Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more you can help others. Try to acquaint yourself with the knowledge of the mental disease they face, and also learn about how treatments work so that you know what kind of improvements or side effects to expect.
The best place to learn about mental health issues and their treatments is TherapyHunter. It is a professional blog that discusses mental health and details excellent techniques to cope with different mental pathologies.
4. Provide emotional support
Sometimes, the person facing mental health issues only wants someone to listen to them. They will find it enormously helpful to have someone they can talk to and share their problems with.
Knowing that their actions aren’t being seen through the lens of judgment is a big relief for them. You can play this important role in their life — you can be someone whose company makes them feel less alone and ashamed. They are not to blame for their mental condition, but they may feel that they are. You can help inspire hope in them!
5. What NOT to Do If You’re Trying to Support Someone with Mental Health Issues
- Don’t criticize them for not being able to overcome their intrusive thoughts and emotions.
- Don’t raise your voice at them.
- Don’t assume things about their personality or their condition.
- Don’t make jokes or be sarcastic about their problems.
- Don’t say anything condescending.
- Don’t talk too much. Try to be more of a listener.
Conclusion
Above are a few several ways to show your care and support for your loved ones who are suffering from mental illness. Remember to express your feelings that you care for them and be patient with them when they show their emotions, actions, or their thoughts.
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