Mental illnesses come in many different forms, it can be noticeable or not, and it can affect anyone and even everyone. So, having someone you love experience a mental illness does not only affect them but also you. As someone they’re close to, you would want to be able to help them, even just a little.
How Can You Help Someone Who Has a Mental Illness?
There are a few ways you can help someone who is experiencing a mental illness. This can range from just by being with their side to even trying to help them go see a professional. But, take note that you should not push yourself on to the person as this can even worsen the situation. You should be mindful of their feelings and learn when you’re being too much. Below, we listed a few ways you can try and help the person you care about.
When Talking about their Mental Health:
Keep an Open Mind
When you get the chance to talk to your loved one about their mental health, keep an open mind about whatever they say. This is because there are things that a mental ill person might say that may shock you, so you must try to keep calm and neutral.
No Distractions
Make time to talk to your loved one, so make sure that you are available and there is nothing that can distract you from the conversation. Getting distracted in the middle of the conversation might cause your loved one to think that they are less important.
Don’t Force Them to Say Anything, Know Your Limits
Never ever force them to say anything when they don’t want to. Let them talk about what they want to talk about because by forcing them to speak about things they don’t want to put too much pressure on them which can cause a bigger issue.
Don’t Second Guess What They are Feeling
Never assume that you know what they are feeling and experiencing. This makes them feel that what they are feeling is invalid which would make them even worse. If you are not a trained professional, then do not do this. But you can talk about getting professional help.
Offer Help from a Professional
Try offering to help them get professional help but do not try and take control of them, let them decide for their own.
Provide Emotional Support
Be their support and have their backs. If they do not open up about their mental health now, then wait until they are ready. As long as you keep reminding them that you have their back, they will open up eventually.
How Do You Know When to Help?
But how do you know when you’re supposed to help? Well there are a few signs you should look for before stepping in. These signs are:
- When they are isolating themselves.
- When they don’t enjoy or do the things they used to enjoy doing.
- If they say some unsettling things.
- If they eat less or more.
- They seem emotionally drained and numb.
- Avoiding their loved ones without a reason
- And if they’re talking about taking their own life.
Bottomline
Having someone you love experience mental health is very hard, but you should never turn your back on them. Be patient and have their backs. Help them get through these hard times. And if you need advice on how to talk to them, then try contacting us at CNS.
