Top 10 Ways to Support a Family Member or Friend Struggling with Mental Health Issues
Struggling with mental health issues can be challenging, not only for the individual but also for their family and friends. If you know someone who is going through a difficult time, here are ten practical ways you can support them:
1. Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for them to express their feelings without fear of criticism or judgment. Sometimes, just being there to listen can make a world of difference.
2. Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about the mental health condition your family member or friend is facing. Understanding their challenges can help you offer more effective support.
3. Encourage self-care: Remind them of the importance of self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. These activities increase the production of feel good hormones such as dopamine. Offer to join them in activities they enjoy.
4. Seek professional help: Encourage them to seek professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor, especially one who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Professional support can provide them with the tools and resources they need to manage their mental health more effectively.
5. Offer practical help: Assist with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or running errands to alleviate some of the stress they may be experiencing. Try doing the activities together as much as possible so they can feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
6. Stay connected: Keep in regular contact with them, even if it’s just a brief check-in to see how they’re doing. Feeling supported and connected can make a big difference in their recovery journey.
7. Respect boundaries: While it’s important to offer support, it’s also essential to respect their boundaries. Allow them to set limits on what they feel comfortable sharing or doing. Finding a balance between being there and giving space is important.
8. Provide reassurance: Remind them that they are not alone and that you are there for them. Offer words of encouragement or reminders of their abilities or strategies they used to overcome previous hardships. This may help to balance their thinking.
9. Be patient: Recovery from mental health issues takes time, and there may be setbacks along the way. Patience and understanding are crucial during these times.
10. Take care of yourself: Supporting a family member or friend with mental health issues can be emotionally taxing, so don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.
To access cognitive behavioural therapy in Toronto, specializing in men’s mental health, please contact the mens wellness clinic to book a free 15 minute consultation through their website or by phone at 416 834 2080. To access therapy for women contact psychology today, which provides a list of psychotherapist that practice cognitive behavioural therapy.
