Making the decision to seek mental health support for yourself can be a critical first step towards getting the help you need to live a happier, healthier life. But what about when it’s a loved one that requires care? Having a friend or family member with mental health challenges can make you feel helpless, especially if they refuse to seek support. Whether your loved one is going through a tough time temporarily or they’re showing signs of a more serious mental health illness, it’s helpful to understand what you can do to support them, and when you should seek out a professional on their behalf.
Know the Signs
Mental health conditions can impact anyone of any age at any time in their life. A friend or family member might be having a hard time at work, dealing with relationship problems, or coping with physical issues that have caused depression or anxiety. They might not even realize they are struggling with their mental health but show symptoms that have become noticeable to you. Some signs could include:
- Social withdrawal
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Severe mood changes
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Memory or thinking problems
Talk it Out
If you think your friend or family member might be exhibiting symptoms of a condition like anxiety or depression, you should try talking to them as soon as possible. It might feel like an awkward or embarrassing conversation, but expressing your concern and care can help them realize there’s an issue. Here are a few ways to say just that:
- “I’ve noticed you seem more stressed than usual.”
- “You don’t seem like yourself lately; is there something wrong?”
- “Is there something that’s been bothering you more than usual?”
- “I am concerned about you and want to help, can we talk?”
Try to keep your questions open-ended and encourage them to talk honestly. Don’t presume to know how they feel or what they’re going through and keep a supportive and positive tone. Most importantly, LISTEN to their concerns without dismissing them or trying to solve them with your own advice.
For many people, seeking professional mental health support might feel scary or just unnecessary, so tread lightly with your suggestions. Express your concern and reassure them you have their best interests in mind. You could offer to help research providers or accompany them to their first intake session. Above all, try not to push too hard or make them feel you know more than they do about their own feelings.
Your loved one may or may not heed your advice. Try to be patient and continue an ongoing dialogue about their mental health. You can’t force someone to seek help, but being persistent with your concerns may convince them to look for treatment.
Support Yourself
Whether your loved one seeks help or refuses, the situation can take its toll on your own mental health. Get educated on different conditions, reach out to a support group or therapist yourself, and create healthy boundaries to deal with your stress and discomfort.
Of course, you want to support your loved one in need, but it can’t be to your own detriment.
Seek Immediate Help if Needed
There might be situations in which your loved one doesn’t recognize they have a more serious mental health issue. They might be exhibiting symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions or hallucinations, or bipolar disease, with risky behaviors or intense emotional episodes. Or they might be in a crisis situation and unable to get help for themselves.
If you feel it’s an emergency or your loved one is at risk of hurting themselves or others, you may have to call 911. This can feel like an aggressive move, but when someone’s safety is in jeopardy, waiting is not an option. Emergency operators and first responders are trained to deal with all different kinds of situations that involve mental health issues.
Remember What’s Treatable
When a loved one is suffering from anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition, it can feel overwhelming for them and you. Remember, most conditions are very treatable with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
MindGlow Health offers talk therapy and psychiatric care through convenient online appointments with licensed providers who are experienced and passionate about what they do. The company was built on the foundation of a well-established behavioral health organization, where thousands of people nationwide have sought care for their mental health concerns.
Whether seeking support for yourself or a loved one, learn more about the services we provide or get started today with one of our experienced, passionate online providers to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.
