Have you ever wondered how to support someone with a mental health issue in your life? If so, this post might help.
Mental Health is Still Stigmatized
The saddest part about the stigma associated with mental health is it’s not the fault of the person who is suffering from an issue. You wouldn’t disown a family member for getting cancer or losing their eyesight would you? No, of course you wouldn’t!
Mental health is still health, and we must support the people in our lives with whatever issue they are dealing with. The question is, how can you do it in a way that is helpful and supportive rather than judgmental and unsympathetic?
1. Be present and listen
It’s such a simple act, but just taking the time to listen to someone can go a long way.
Make time to listen, and just be there for them without judgment and without interruption.
2. Educate yourself
One of the biggest reasons people have such a hard time with how to support someone with a mental health issue is they don’t understand it. The internet is a wealth of knowledge about every mental health issue currently known. So lean into learning the symptoms, treatments, etc…
Just make sure you’re getting your information from reputable sources such as:
- National Institute of Mental Health
- American Psychological Association
- Psychology Today
- Most websites that end in .edu or .gov
3. Offer words of encouragement
Validate their feelings, and don’t take it personally if they don’t respond for a while.
4. Encourage them to seek professional help
There are some issues that you won’t be able to help with, and that’s okay. Let them know you understand sometimes a professional is necessary and you want them to get the help them need.
5. Take care of yourself too
The best thing you can do to help take care of others is to take care of yourself as well.
Hammond Psychology and Associates is the go-to resource for residents seeking psychological evaluations from a licensed psychologist in the Tampa Bay area. Click here to learn more about our Psychological Testing services in our Brandon location.