Do You Have a Friend or Family Member with Mental Health Issues?

Helping someone with mental health issues can make a huge impact

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Often, those of us with mental health issues feel like we are struggling alone, inside our own minds. Having the support of those around us can make a huge impact on our mental health, and assist in recovery both long-term and short-term.

When someone has mental health issues, having a strong support system can be a huge protective factor. This can give them a sense of hope, knowing that there are others that they can turn to for support when symptoms are difficult.

It can be difficult to support someone with mental health issues, because often it is hard for them to open up about how they are feeling. Or, they may not have a specific response when you ask them how you can help. They may not know what will help at any given point in time. But knowing someone is there who cares can still make a big difference.

Sometimes, all you can do is sit with them and show that you care. You can be there for them, listen to their concerns, and be open to their feelings and needs. Often, a listening ear and a heart that cares are some of the biggest gifts that you can give.

If they do ask for support in a specific way, honoring that is important too. Many times, people with mental health issues aren’t looking for advice, just for support. They may already have a therapist that they go to for advice and coping skills. Just having a listening ear sometimes is all that we need. Being able to talk about our problems is freeing. Knowing that someone will listen without judgement is a huge gift.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, here are 8 tips for helping a friend who has mental health issues:

1. Set time aside with no distractions

2. Let them share as much or as little as they want to

3. Don’t try to diagnose or second guess their feelings

4. Keep questions open ended

5. Talk about self-care

6. Listen carefully to what they tell you

7. Offer them help in seeking professional support and provide information on ways to do this

8. Know your limits

When you make a promise to help someone with their mental health issues, it is important that you are committed to following through. If the help that they need is beyond what you can give them, you can provide referrals to mental health agencies, or help them find a nearby crisis center, or phone numbers to a crisis hotline.

If someone you know is contemplating suicide, you can refer them to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by dialing 988.

You may not be able to solve your friend or loved one’s mental health issues for them, and you should not expect to be able to do that. Just listening and providing support and caring is enough. Knowing that they have someone there for them can make a profound impact on their mental health!

Have a great week,

Nicole Dake