Supporting friends who are dealing with mental illness can be incredibly challenging. Your support can make a real difference in their lives, even if it’s just offering a listening ear. Here are some ways to support a friend who is struggling with mental illness:
Be There to Listen
– Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is simply listen without judgment or offering advice. Allow them to express their feelings and frustrations without trying to “fix” everything. Let them know you’re there for them, and that their feelings are valid.
– Avoid interrupting, minimizing, or dismissing what they are going through. Let them lead the conversation at their own pace.
Educate Yourself About Mental Illness
– Take the time to learn about the specific mental health challenges your friend is facing. Understanding what they’re going through can help you offer more empathetic and informed support.
– Be mindful of the stigma surrounding mental health. Try to approach your friend with compassion, not pity.
Offer Practical Help
– Mental illness can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. Offer help with specific things, like cooking, running errands, or helping them keep up with their responsibilities.
Respect Their Boundaries
– People with mental health struggles can sometimes feel overwhelmed or need space. If your friend withdraws or isn’t ready to talk, respect that. Let them know you’re there when they’re ready but don’t push them.
– At the same time, check in regularly so they know you’re still thinking of them.
Know the Signs of Crisis
– Understand when your friend may need more immediate support. If you notice signs of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or erratic behavior, it’s important to intervene.
– If you’re unsure of what to do, contact a mental health professional or a helpline.
Create a Safe and Non-Judgmental Space
– Make sure your friend feels safe to talk openly with you. Avoid giving unsolicited advice or telling them to “snap out of it.” Statements like “Just think positive” or “Others have it worse” can make someone feel even more isolated.
– Let them know that it’s okay to feel how they feel, and you’re there to support them regardless of what they’re going through.
Check In Regularly
– Mental illness often isolates people. Even if they don’t always respond or seem like they want company, sending a text or message to check in can remind your friend that they are not alone.
– Small gestures go a long way.
Practice Patience
– Recovery can be slow, and your friend might have good days and bad days. It’s important to be patient with their journey and not expect quick fixes. Sometimes just sticking around and being a consistent, understanding presence is one of the best things you can do.
Take Care of Yourself
– Supporting someone with a mental illness can be emotionally draining. Make sure you are also taking time to care for your own well-being. It’s important to set boundaries, practice self-care, and seek support when you need it.
Every person is different, so what works for one friend may not work for another. Ultimately, the best way to support someone is to communicate openly and regularly with them about what they need, and be as compassionate and non-judgmental as possible.
To those of you that have someone in your life with mental illness and you are their support, I commend you with a resounding thank you! You are doing more good than you know. It may not seem like it and you may not be getting a big thank you, but know that deep down your loved one is touched by your kind words and deeds. You truly are a saint! Hang in there and God bless!
© Copyright Buddy Writes | All Rights Reserved
