When a loved one is living with a mental health condition, whether it’s anxiety, depression, an eating disorder, or something else, it can be difficult to know how to help. Sometimes, we are afraid that our care will do more harm than good; other times we are afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. However, caring about our friends and family is a privilege.
Since 1949, the month of May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. This is an opportunity to celebrate recovery, cultivate resilience, and increase our understanding of how mental and emotional wellbeing impacts our overall health.
In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month, here are some easy suggestions to help you support your loved ones on their mental health journey:
1. Do Your Research
If a loved one shares that they have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, do some research on symptoms of the diagnosis and available treatment options. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), American Psychological Association (APA), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) are excellent resources. These organizations have lots of in-depth information, including handouts, articles, seminars, books, and trainings for individuals seeking to support loved ones and for those who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition.
2. Ask Your Loved One About Their Experiences and Actively Listen
While research can give you an abundance of information about symptoms and treatment options, your loved one is the expert on how their life is impacted by their mental health diagnosis. Aim to listen to understand.
3. Know Your Loved One’s Crisis Plan
Ask your loved one if they have a safety plan in the event of a mental health crisis and what role they may need you to play in helping them stay safe. It’s recommended to know the contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (dial 988), your local Community Services Board, and regional resources that offer 24/7 emergency services in the event of a mental health crisis.
4. Offer Care in the Form Your Loved One Is Looking For
Ask your loved ones if they need someone to listen, a space to solve problems, or if they need someone to help distract them for a little while. Choice feels empowering and knowing what your loved one needs from your conversation can add clarity to your communication.
5. Remind Your Loved Ones That Caring Is What Friends and Family Do
Many times, we fear being a burden to other people when it comes to sharing our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It can be reassuring to your loved ones to let them know you care and that you know your boundaries.
6. Fight the Stigma and Be an Ally
Everyone can be a better steward of their mental, emotional, and behavioral health. Talking about your emotions and mental health and creating open, welcoming spaces in your relationships for others to also share about their mental health can be lifesaving.
7. Encourage Your Loved One to Speak With a Mental Health Professional
Therapy is a valuable space to feel seen and heard by a professional who specializes in supporting mental and emotional wellbeing. Taking the first step and reaching out to a professional can be scary but is also incredibly brave.
8. Check In With Yourself
Understand how you’re feeling, what your boundaries are, and when and how you can engage in self-care. Supporting someone with a mental health condition is challenging and you need to take care of yourself, too. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.
