According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), millions of people are affected by various mental illnesses each year, and this number is going upward day by day. Sometimes, it is us going through rough times, and people help us to get back, and some other times, we are worried about our loved one’s mental health.

No matter how common this mental health problem becomes, it can never be easy to see a close one struggling with this. 

No doubt, all of us want to show our support to our loved ones. But most of us don’t know what to do or what to say to them.

Well, it can be difficult, but we are here to help you and your loved ones. You don’t need to be a mental health expert to support others. Even a small action can make a big difference. Here How: 

Educate Yourself:

The more you understand about the condition of the next person or how he is going through it, the better you will be able to help him. Sometimes, it would be obvious when someone is going through a hard time, while sometimes, you may not even notice.

So, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms on your own. Although there are many symptoms common in mental health problems, still two people would never behave the same when unwell. So, try to notice any specific behavioral changes if you know the person well.

Moreover, if you don’t have any knowledge, you can get some help from an experienced person or also look out for authentic information on the internet and read up on depression, the anxiety it causes, and its symptoms. 

Express Your Concern

If you have noticed some behavioral changes in your loved ones, then it’s time for you to express your concern. We know it is not easy to start a first conversation, but doing so is the first step to getting your loved ones the help they need.

You can start by telling them about your concerns rather than asking, “What is wrong with you”? Try to use statements like “I have noticed you have seemed down lately. Is everything okay?” and let them take their time to think without any pressure. 

Because there is a high chance that you will be the first to ask that question, it may take some time for them to evaluate and recognize the issue. 

If they are not ready to talk yet, don’t make them feel pressured; just make sure they know that you are available for them and ready to listen whenever they are ready. This will help your loved ones to get to you in the future. 

Listen to Them:

Wait for the time when they are ready to talk to you about their issues; when the time comes, offer a non-judgmental ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. This is the best thing you can do for someone who is feeling alone, depressed, or worried. Because sometimes, in such a situation, all a person needs is to take out all the burden of his heart on someone. 

Moreover, they try not to solve the problem or offer advice they don’t need. While it is natural to tell them a solution, doing so may discourage them from opening up to you in the future. 

Talk to Them about Seeking Professional Help:

As much as you want or try, you can not help your loved ones on your own; no doubt you can provide all the emotional support they need, but it is also important to make a treatment plan with a mental health expert or a medical professional.

In order to get to it, the first step is to encourage your friend or family member to book an appointment with the primary healthcare provider, the one they know and trust well. The health care provider will refer them to mental health specialists and also will emphasize the need for it.

Your loved ones may not feel motivated enough to take this step, so try your best to motivate them and remind them their mental health is as important as their physical health. Offer them the opportunity to book appointments on their behalf and look for good therapists. You can go with them on their first session to encourage them. 

Be Patient:

One thing that you should keep in mind is that treating mental illness is not like other illnesses, like taking medication, and you will be fine in a few days. No, It’s a bit different. It can take some time for your loved ones to get better, or it may require more than one medication or treatment. Even with the proper treatment, there is a chance that the symptoms will appear from time to time.

Understanding all of this can help you to set realistic expectations for your loved ones. Remind yourself that you have to check on them and show support even when they say they are fully recovered. Be patient and just wait for the time for your loved ones to live a happy and healthy life, which is not too far.

Take Care of Yourself:

Supporting and taking care of someone suffering from a mental health condition is not easy; it can be time-consuming, exhausting, and frustrating sometimes. At that time, most of us probably did not care much about our own health and wellness while putting the needs of our loved ones first.

But this will be of no use to you or your loved ones. In order to take care of your loved ones properly, you should be strong and active. Make sure to take some time for yourself to do the things you like to do, including cooking, reading, and hanging out. Don’t try to bind yourself to one person. Give some space to him and to yourself.

Bottom Line

Mental issues are not something that you should take lightly. It’s important to look out for warning signs and symptoms and take them seriously.

Talk to your loved ones, show some emotional support, and don’t hesitate to involve a professional when it comes to their safety. Urge them to see a therapist and stay with them in their recovery process as well. Just remember it is a hard time that will be passed soon, and you will see your loved ones again happy and living their life to the fullest.