6 WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR LOVED ONES WHO ARE STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH
“When you change one thing, you have the ability to change EVERYTHING.”
1. RECOGNIZE THE WARNING SIGNS
Signs of mental illness can vary greatly from person to person. Common indicators may include changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawal from social activities, or difficulty performing at school or work. It’s important to note that other factors, such as physical illness, can also contribute to these changes. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine whether the changes are concerning. Addressing concerns early is crucial, as untreated symptoms can worsen over time.
If you notice several of the following signs, it may be helpful to consult with a mental health professional:
- Sleep or appetite changes: Significant changes in sleep patterns or appetite, or neglecting personal care.
- Mood changes: Rapid or extreme mood swings, feelings of depression, or heightened irritability.
- Withdrawal: Withdrawing from social interactions or losing interest in previously enjoyed activities.
- Drop in functioning: A noticeable decline in performance at school, work, or in social activities, such as quitting sports, failing at school, or struggling with routine tasks.
- Problems thinking: Difficulty with concentration, memory, or logical thinking, and speech that’s hard to follow.
- Increased sensitivity: Over-sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, or touch; avoidance of overstimulating environments.
- Apathy: Lack of interest or initiative in participating in activities.
- Feeling disconnected: A vague sense of detachment from oneself or surroundings, or a feeling of unreality.
- Illogical thinking: Unusual or exaggerated beliefs about personal power or magical thinking more typical of childhood.
- Nervousness: Unexplained fear or suspicion of others, or a strong sense of nervousness.
- Unusual behavior: Engaging in odd, out-of-character, or peculiar actions.
- Changes in school or work: Increased absenteeism, worsening performance, or difficulties in relationships with peers and co-workers.
While one or two of these symptoms alone may not indicate a mental health concern, experiencing several of them simultaneously and facing challenges in daily life could be a sign of a deeper issue. If these symptoms interfere with studying, working, or relationships, seeking guidance from a physician or mental health professional is essential. Immediate attention is required if there are thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harm to others.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, please reach out for support right away. Contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.
2. STARTING THE CONVERSATION
Starting a conversation with someone you’re concerned about can be incredibly challenging, but it’s also one of the most important steps. You don’t need to be an expert or have all the answers—just let them know you care. Express your concern with statements like “I’m worried about you” or “I’d like you to consider talking to a counselor.” Make sure your words are supportive and avoid being judgmental. It’s important to listen without offering immediate solutions and to approach the conversation with patience and empathy.
Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional or primary care provider, and try to make the comparison to seeking care for a physical illness, such as diabetes. Seeking help is not a weakness—it’s a sign of strength.
3. EDUCATING YOURSELF ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
Take the initiative to educate yourself. The more you learn, the better equipped you’ll be to offer helpful, informed suggestions to a loved one.
Be mindful of where you’re getting your information, especially when browsing online. Just like any other topic, the quality of online content can vary significantly.
4. HELPING ADDRESS BARRIERS
5. SEEKING SUPPORT FOR YOURSELF
While supporting a loved one, it’s equally important to take care of your own physical and emotional well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek help for yourself if needed, and recognize the limits of what you can offer.
As blogger Victoria Maxwell writes: “When my mother was ill with severe depression, mania, and anxiety, I was both worried and angry. I needed someone outside the family to talk through my frustrations and pain without fear of upsetting her. A qualified therapist provides clarity, objectivity, and solutions, helping me safely process the emotions that came with such a challenging situation.”
Support groups for family members, such as those offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA), can provide valuable support and resources. NAMI offers programs like “Family-to-Family,” an educational course for families, as well as peer-led support groups for ongoing assistance.
NAMI’s Family-to-Family program is a free, 12-session course for families and friends of people living with mental illness. It’s taught by NAMI-trained family members who have lived through similar experiences.
6. BEING THERE FOR THE LONG HAUL
Recovery from a mental health challenge is rarely a linear process. It often involves ups and downs, periods of progress, and times of setbacks. Be prepared to offer ongoing support and encouragement, not just during moments of crisis. If your loved one gives permission, collaborate with professionals on their care team to support them and participate in their treatment planning.
Even if it feels like your support isn’t making an immediate impact, rest assured that it likely is. Your loved one may be struggling too much to express their gratitude or the positive effects of your efforts. Your presence and care make a difference, even if it’s not always immediately visible.
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