How To Support A Loved One Who Is Struggling With Their Mental Health
If a loved one is struggling with their mental health, reaching out to them and offering some support can be a real lifeline. Discover the different ways you can support someone struggling with their mental health in the post below.
Take some time out to have a conversation with them
When you have a close friend or loved one who is struggling with their mental health, the first step is often to take some time out of your day to have a conversation with them. It's important to approach this conversation in the right way and to be open to what they may say, even if it might be worrying to you. It's also vital that you allow them to share as much or as little as they would like, and that you truly listen to what they are saying.
Don't try to diagnose them
Also when helping a friend or loved one that is struggling with their mental health, you mustn't try to diagnose them. The reason for this is that for some people a diagnosis can be very helpful and comforting, while for others it can be a label they reject or actively avoid. In the latter scenario just add more stress to their already full plate.
Most importantly, no one is qualified to diagnose someone with a mental health condition unless they are a trained medical professional. Indeed. In many cases, individuals need to be seen by a psychological specialist for a diagnosis, and even then not every professional agrees! To that end, encouraging a friend or loved one to see a medical professional is the best approach here.
Don't shame or judge them
Sadly, there is still a great deal of stigma around mental health conditions and disorders. Some believe that those who have them are weak, while others will not acknowledge that they exist at all.
That is why it's very important to not judge or shame a person when they are discussing their disorder with you. Remember to always make the distinction between the disorder and the person.
Help them find treatment
Often one of the most helpful things you can do to support a loved one who is struggling with their mental health is to help them find treatment that suits their needs.
There are many different types of treatment to consider like the Yellowbrick Program residential facilities, especially tailored to cater for emerging adults between 16-30. Such facilities provide a customized program for those with psychiatric conditions which provides better outcomes during recovery.
Alternatively, there are outpatient programs, as well as private counseling and therapy to consider. There is also a wide range of charity-led peer support groups which can provide support and representation, as well as help those struggling with particular conditions feel less alone.
Discuss some things they might be able to do as self-care
Last of all, if you want to support someone you love with their mental health, then you can discuss some of the things they may be able to do as self-care. These could include:
- Making an appointment with their doctor or therapist
- Taking some time to be in nature
- Moving their body
- Check they are taking their medications and help them create a schedule if not
- Practice a hobby
- Get some complimentary healing!
- Have a fun day - you could even go with them!
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