It’s sometimes hard to know when or how to reach out to a loved one struggling with mental health issues. Needless to say, mental health problems can have serious impacts on a person’s relationships with family and friends and can influence them significantly in work and daily situations. This is why it is immensely important to try to help those people in any way possible, provided that you are in a position to do so. You might not have all the answers, but you can always show support by being willing to listen.
If you know someone who’s struggling with mental health issues, it’s beneficial to know how to help them. Here are some tips on how to comfort those you love and help them cope with mental illness.
Here’s How to Help Someone Struggling with Mental Health Issues:
Ask If the Person You Are Talking To Is OK.
If your friend is crying or acting strange, then that’s a sign that they may be in need of help. If they are struggling to remember who they are, or their friends or family members, or if they call you crying and tell you that they are thinking of harming themselves, then that’s actually a sign of serious mental health struggles.
When your friend is acting strange, don’t ignore them—try to be a friend and be there for them, even if you don’t know what to say. Many times, the person who is struggling might not consider professional help as an option. It’s important to confront the situation but in a way that shows concern and care. Sometimes the best way to help a loved one struggling with mental health issues is to ask questions that may seem silly or intrusive—but they’re actually just a way of showing the person you care about them. Asking questions is a way to let the person know you’re there for them, no matter what.
Listen To Them.
Sometimes a friend or family member struggles or goes through a difficult time and in that time, all you need to do is listen to them. It can be difficult to know how to help them, especially because many people avoid the subject or hesitate to ask for help, thinking that they might be judged. But in order to be a good friend, you have to start by listening. Besides, there are a variety of options available to help those individuals, so be equipped with the knowledge and awareness of the options of mental health treatment.
Inform That Person That Help Is Always Available.
Don’t assume that your suggestion will be met with acceptance, especially if that person isn’t in a good place to accept help. However, it is also important to make them aware of the help available.
Talk to Them If They Would Like to Talk to Someone.
Ask if there is someone they would like to contact in order to learn how to manage their mental health.
Tell The Person to Reach Out to Their Physician.
It is highly suggested that they see a doctor who can rule out other physical problems such as thyroid issues, anemia, or vitamin B12 deficiency that may be the reason behind their mental stress.
Provide The Person with A List of Local Resources
It could be your local hospital or mental health center—that can provide caregivers.
It can be a tough subject to discuss, particularly if you’re familiar with it yourself, however, helping someone who is suffering from it is important. But stigmas remain, keeping people from seeking help when they need it. And even when people do seek treatment, they often face a lack of understanding from friends and family. That’s why you should educate yourself on mental health issues so that when you’re faced with a friend or family member struggling with mental health, you can help in the best way possible.