As society becomes more aware of mental health issues, it’s likely that someone you know, whether it be a friend or family member, is struggling with their mental health. It can be difficult to know how to support someone going through a difficult time, but there are some things you can do to help.
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Listen without judgement: One of the most important things you can do is listen to them without being judgemental. Let them talk about their feelings and don’t interrupt or try to solve their problems for them. Just being there for them and offering a listening ear can be incredibly comforting.
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Educate yourself: Educating yourself about mental health issues can help you understand what your loved one is going through. Read up on the symptoms of different mental health disorders and learn how to recognise them.
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Be patient: Recovery from mental health issues can be a slow process, so it’s important to be patient. Don’t pressure your loved one to get better or expect them to recover overnight. Instead, offer your support and let them know that you’re there for them.
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Offer practical help: Depending on the situation, there may be practical things you can do to help. This could include offering to accompany them to therapy sessions, helping them with household chores or cooking meals for them when they’re not feeling up to it.
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Encourage them to seek professional help: While your support is important, it’s also important for your loved one to seek professional help. Encourage them to speak to a doctor or therapist and offer to help them find resources in their area.
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Take care of yourself: Supporting someone through a mental health issue can be emotionally taxing, and it’s crucial to take care of yourself as well. Make sure to practise self-care, set boundaries, and seek support from your own network of friends and family.
Remember, supporting someone with a mental health issue can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By being there for your loved one, you’re helping them on their path to recovery and showing them that they’re not alone.