Mental health issues can be challenging and overwhelming, not just for the person struggling with them, but also for their loved ones. Supporting someone with mental health problems can be difficult, but it’s an important way to show that you care and that they’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you support friends and family members who are struggling with mental health issues.
Listen and validate
Listening and validating someone’s feelings is the most important thing you can do to support them. Let them know that you’re there to listen and that their feelings are valid. Try to understand their perspective and avoid being judgmental. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or minimizing their feelings. Instead, simply listen and let them know that you care.
Practical help
Give practical help by asking what you can do to help, then take a specific action. This could mean cooking a meal, running errands, or simply being there to talk. Practical help can take a lot of the pressure off someone struggling with mental health issues. It can also be a tangible way to show that you care.
Encourage professional help
Encourage your loved one to seek help from a mental health professional and offer to support them in finding a therapist or counsellor. A mental health professional can help them better understand their condition, develop coping strategies, and find effective treatments.
Educate yourself
Learn about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies to better understand what your loved one is going through and how you can support them. This will help you be a more informed and effective supporter.
Be patient
Mental health issues can be challenging to deal with and often take time to resolve. It’s important to be patient and persistent in your support, even when it’s difficult. Encourage your loved one to keep seeking help, and offer to support them through the process.
Avoid blaming
Mental health issues are not the result of personal weakness or lack of willpower. It’s important to avoid blaming or stigmatizing your loved one for their condition, as this can make their situation even more challenging. Instead, offer support and understanding, and encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.
Stay in touch
Make sure to stay in touch with your loved one and offer regular support, even when they’re not experiencing a crisis. This can be especially important for those who are dealing with depression or other conditions that can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Offer hope and encouragement
Encourage your loved one to focus on their strengths and not give up hope. Remind them that they can overcome their mental health challenges and that they have a network of people who care about them and want to help.
In conclusion, supporting someone with mental health issues can be difficult, but it’s an important way to show that you care and that they’re not alone.
By listening, offering practical help, encouraging professional help, taking care of yourself, educating yourself, being patient and persistent, avoiding blaming or stigmatizing, staying in touch, and offering hope and encouragement, you can be a supportive and effective friend or family member to someone who is struggling with mental health issues.
Who can help?
You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed about asking for help.
Reaching out for help can help you to get the support you need, and there is a wide array of support organisations who can help you… Including:
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide
So, if you need support, or just need someone to talk to – don’t hesitate to contact any of these amazing organisations.
