If you have a loved one suffering from mental health issues, you may feel helpless and unsure of what to do. You want to help, but you don’t know how. Here are some ways to support your loved ones and help them get the treatment they need.
Listen and Be There for Them
It is crucial that you listen to your loved ones when they are talking about their mental health. It would help if you tried to be understanding and provide support for them. You can also offer to help them with things they may need assistance with.
If your loved one is dealing with a lot of stress, you can offer to help them take breaks throughout the day or do things they enjoy. You can also help them to create a healthy routine for themselves.
This may include eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. It is also essential to be there for your loved ones when they are experiencing symptoms of their mental illness. You should provide support and encouragement for them. Even if you are not near someone going through mental health issues, you can connect by phone or video chat.
Don’t Judge or Criticize Them
Most people make the mistake of judging or criticizing a loved one with mental health problems; this will only make things worse for them. Instead, try to be understanding and supportive. It is vital to note that people suffering from mental health are already dealing with many negative thoughts. The last thing they need is someone adding to those thoughts.
If you’re not sure what to say, it’s okay to simply express your concern and let them know that you are there for them. Sometimes, just listening can be helpful. Avoid advising unless asked, as this can also come across as judgmental.
Suffering from mental health can be incredibly isolating. Your loved one may not want to talk about their problems, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t reach out. Try inviting them to do something fun or relaxing, like going for a walk or catching a movie. If they decline, don’t take it personally. Just let them know that you are there for them and continue to reach out.
Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help
It is also vital to encourage your loved ones to seek professional help if they are struggling. This can be in the form of therapy, medication, or both. It is important to remember that mental health is just like physical health, and sometimes people need professional help to get better.
If your loved one is resistant to seeking help, you can offer to go with them to their appointment or help them research different therapists or doctors. You can also let them know that you are there for them and will support them through the process.
Encouraging your loved ones to seek professional help is vital to support them as they suffer from mental health issues. It shows that you care about their well-being and want to see them improve. It can also be the first step in getting them the help they need to recover.
If you are looking for more ways to help a loved one suffering from mental health issues, please visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness website. NAMI has tons of resources that can provide you with information and support. You are not alone in this journey, and some people want to help. Thank you for reading our blog post.