Supporting a friend or loved one with mental issues is an overwhelming task to do. An anxiety case, depression, or any other would surely become stressful to know how to take care of them without crossing all boundaries. In this help guide, we will discuss some useful strategies for providing support while taking care of you.
Essential Takeaways
- Understanding Mental Health and knowing about common mental health problems and the stigma associated with them to be an educated supporter.
- Practice active listening. Do this by being there, validating emotions, and empathizing when your loved one shares their feelings.
- Prioritize self-care. Supporting someone can be emotionally draining. Be sure to recognize your own needs and practice self-care to maintain your well-being.
Understanding Mental Health
What Is Mental Health?
The mental status of a person defines his emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects both our thinking and emotions, which are directly related to the kind of actions we perform. It further shows the ability to deal with stress, relationships with people, and everyday decision-making.
Mental health is crucial at all stages of life, from early childhood to old age. It could experience normal fluctuations, but serious issues might hinder one’s ability to function entirely on the personal level, interpersonal relationship level, and physical level.
Common Mental Health Issues
There are numerous mental health illnesses, each with their distinct symptoms and challenges. Here is a general outline of the more common ones you will encounter in supporting your loved one:
- Anxiety Disorders. Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, or Social Anxiety. Over worry to panic attacks.
- Depression. A condition resulting in sadness that does not go away, loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed, changes in appetite or sleep habits.
- Bipolar Disorder. Extreme mood swings may occur in people suffering from bipolar disorder, such as episodes of depression followed by manic highs.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). People with OCD develop uncontrollable thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) to make people do the same things.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Though it develops after witnessing a traumatic event, symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and extreme anxiety.
Understanding these conditions is the very first thing that supports a helping hand in the right way. Every individual has different experiences, and mental illnesses present differently according to their specific situations.
The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health
Most mental health problems are stigmatized, and individuals tend to avoid getting treatment in order not to risk what they perceive as their “hopeless,” unacceptable state. Most still look at mental illness from a dark perspective; this makes it harder for them to reconnect with their loved ones due to the stigma and shame involved.
The fact that there is such stigma attached to this area can end with the making of a more open atmosphere to discuss the issues of mental health. An open discussion will help normalize these conversations, making it easier for those affected to seek help at the moment that is so desperately needed.
Signs Your Loved One May Need Support
Emotional Indications
His ability to detect emotional signs of distress is important. Here are some telltale signs that your dear friend may need to be helped by someone:
- They Become Sadder Than Usual: If the friend seems sadder than he normally does, then something could be wrong.
- Getting Irate. Increased irritability or getting angry more easily is an emotional symptom of stress.
- Mood Swings. Mood swings during his waking hours signify that something is amiss in his mental health.
Behavioral Indications
Sometimes, behavioral changes may also indicate trouble in someone’s mental health. Watch for these in others:
| Withdrawal | If your loved one is withdrawing or distancing himself or herself from social relationships, he or she is probably in distress. |
| Changes in Routine | Changes in sleeping, eating, or habits of personal hygiene may be signs of distress. |
| Decline in Performance | The performance at work or school suffers if he is overwhelmed. |
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms go along with mental health problems. Never jump to conclusions, but note such signs as:
- Fatigue. Feeling chronically tired can be an indication of emotional turmoil
- Headaches or Body Aches. Some people with chronic pain have a psychological disorder.
- Changes in Appetite. Weight loss or gain can be noticeable and could be an indication of emotional trauma
How to Approach the Conversation
Choosing the Right Time and Place
Before approaching your friend or loved one, consider choosing the right time and place for the conversation. There are times and places where they can focus and not feel threatened. Choosing a quiet and comfortable environment and a time when you are all less likely to be busy would be perfect. Busy or public spaces can create more anxiety, so avoid them.
Starting the Conversation
You may start with the conversation after which it would seem daunting, but essential to be straightforward rather than navel-gazing. You can say something to that effect: “I have seen you have a bit of a down day recently. I want you to know that I am here for you if you want to talk about it.” This opens the door for inviting them to open up without being forced to do so.
Active Listening Skills
Once a conversation starts, you must practice active listening. This means:
- Eye Contact. Show them you’re interested and paying attention to them.
- Reflecting Emotions. Repeat the words they use to let them know you understand. For instance, “Sounds like you have had quite an overwhelming feeling.”
- Avoiding Interruptions. Give your rights to complete the statement without interruptions.
Providing Supportive Responses
Validating Their Feelings
Validation is a potent weapon. It can help your loved one feel understood and accepted. Rather than saying, “You shouldn’t feel that way,” try “It’s okay to feel how you’re feeling.” This helps them know they are not alone in their struggles.
Offering Practical Help
Practical help can be very helpful. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Go With Them to Appointments. Sometimes, it helps just to have someone you can go along to therapy or to the doctor with.
- Helping Around the House. In some instances, just being willing to help out with errands or chores can really lighten a big burden.
- Just Being There. Sometimes they just need to have someone sit there and listen or watch a movie together.
Encourage Professional Help
Support is great, but try to encourage your loved one to see professionals who specialize in recovery tools and techniques. Ask if they’d like your help finding a therapist or if you can go with them to their first appointment if they’re willing.
Maintaining Boundaries
Acknowledge Your Limitations
Caring for someone with mental illness is draining. You need to know your limits. Accepting that you feel a certain way and that you cannot save him or her is essential.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Setting healthy boundaries for both you and your loved one is crucial. Here are a few suggestions on how to set healthy boundaries:
| Be Honest About Feelings | When you are feeling overwhelmed, tell him. |
| Encourage Independence | Let them know that though you’re there for them, they have to look after their journey. |
| Know When to Back Off | When things begin to overwhelm you, it’s okay to back off. |
Resources and Tools for Support
Hotlines and Support Groups
Providing resources is, in its own right, very helpful. Here are a few to consider:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Offers a hotline and support groups.
- Crisis Text Line. Provides free, 24-hour support via text.
- Local Mental Health Services. Create a list of possible local resources.
Books and Online Resources
There are several other books and online resources that would give one a much better perspective on mental health issues and effective ways of supporting someone who’s in need of care. Some of the books I’d like to recommend are:
- “The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook“ by Edmund J. Bourne. It is an all-encompassing guide to the control of anxiety.
- “Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy“ by David D. Burns. A kind of classic resource in understanding and getting out from depression.
- Online forums and websites. Places like Mental Health America and Psychology Today have articles, support groups, and much more.
The Importance of Self-Care
Acknowledge Your Needs
While taking care of your loved one, you must also know your emotional and physical needs. Being there for someone else can completely wear you out; therefore, it is essential to check in with yourself regularly. Ask yourself, “Am I feeling overwhelmed? What do I need right now?
Self-Care Activities
Incorporate self-care activities into your daily routine. Here are a few suggestions:
- Mindfulness and Meditation. Most research studies have revealed the fact that performing mindfulness reduces stress and subsequently increases overall wellbeing.
- Hobbies. Find time for hobbies and, with a hobby, normally, people wind up calming down through what they like doing-mostly painting, gardening, or reading, among others.
- Physical Activity. Regular physical activities may help improve mood and reduce the influence of stress.
Final Thoughts
Supporting a friend or loved one with mental illness is a difficult task but one of the most rewarding. Understanding mental health, recognizing a sign of distress, and empathetic support can make a difference in the lives of those who need you. Do not forget to take care of yourself in the process and know that every little bit counts.
FAQs
- How would I know my friend has mental issues?
Monitor for signs including emotional changes, such as the person becoming sad or irritable. There is a change in behavior, like withdrawal and changing daily habits or routines. A change in the body, such as feeling too tired or exhausted, and changes in appetite.
- What do you say to someone who’s struggling with mental health?
Start with open-ended questions such as, “How have you been feeling lately?” and supportive statements that say, “I’m here for you if you want to talk.”
- How may I encourage my loved one to get professional support?
Just talk gently about how professional help can be of assistance to your loved one by offering to help them locate a therapist or accompany them to their first meeting.
- What can I offer my loved one?
Use it to share the hotlines, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Crisis Text Line, and other local mental health services with your loved one.
- How can I care for myself while supporting another?
Set boundaries, be engaged in self-care, and ensure time for the things that bring joy to your life as you maintain your emotional well-being.
