5 Tips for Supporting a Loved One with Mental Health Issues

Hey there, beautiful souls! Let’s chat about a topic that's super important: supporting loved ones with mental health struggles. Mental health can be tricky, and knowing how to help can sometimes feel overwhelming. So, let's break it down with five practical tips to make a real difference.

1. Believe Them

When someone opens up about their mental health struggles, the most important thing you can do is believe them. Let them know that their experience is real and that you care about how they’re feeling. A simple “I believe you” can go a long way in validating their feelings and making them feel seen and heard. Dismissing or downplaying their experience can be incredibly isolating, so just being there and acknowledging their pain is crucial.

2. Avoid Toxic Positivity

Empathy is key, but it's important to steer clear of toxic positivity. Sometimes, in our attempt to comfort, we might say things like, “Everything will be alright” or “Just think positive.” While well-intentioned, these phrases can inadvertently minimize their struggles. Instead, focus on listening and empathizing without trying to fix everything with a positive spin. It’s okay to acknowledge that things are tough without rushing to make it better. Remember, validation over solutions!

3. Spend Quality Time Together

One of the most supportive things you can do is spend time with them doing something they enjoy. They might not have the energy for your usual activities like runs or social gatherings, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to be with you. Whether it’s watching a movie, taking a walk, or just sitting together in silence, your presence can be incredibly comforting. Let them choose the activity and make it about being together, not about being busy.

4. Set Your Own Boundaries

While it’s important to be there for your loved one, it’s equally important to set boundaries to protect your own well-being. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right? Decide what you can realistically offer in terms of time and support, and stick to it. This might mean limiting the time you spend together or defining the kind of support you can provide. And hey, don’t forget to encourage them to seek professional help. Therapy can be a game-changer, offering tools and strategies that go beyond what friends and family can provide.

5. Maintain Your Connection

Even though your loved one is struggling, it doesn’t mean you have to tiptoe around them or treat them differently. Keep checking in on their interests, work, and friendships just like you normally would. Share about your own life, too. Maintaining the special connections in your relationship can offer a sense of normalcy and continuity, which can be very grounding for someone going through a tough time.

Final Thoughts

Mental health struggles are something most of us will face at some point in our lives. It's the support of our loved ones that can make a world of difference. By believing them, avoiding toxic positivity, spending quality time together, setting boundaries, and maintaining your connection, you can provide meaningful support and show your loved one that they’re not alone.

Remember, supporting someone with mental health issues isn’t about having all the answers. It's about being there, showing empathy, and creating a safe space for them to express themselves. Together, we can help each other heal and come out stronger on the other side.

Stay kind, stay supportive, and keep spreading love. 💖🌈

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