How to Support a Friend or Family Member Struggling with Mental Health

Supporting a loved one through mental health struggles can be overwhelming, but your kindness, patience, and encouragement can make all the difference. PHOTO: Gustavo Fring

Supporting a friend or family member with mental health challenges can make a world of difference. Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but a compassionate and understanding support system is crucial. Here are some ways you can help:

Listen Without Judgment

The most important thing you can do is simply listen. Let them express their feelings without immediately offering solutions. Acknowledge their emotions by validating their experience. Saying, “I’m here for you” can make them feel heard and understood.

Be Patient

Healing from mental health struggles takes time, and it’s important to understand that people can’t just “snap out of it.” They are often stuck in a cycle they can’t escape on their own. Providing consistent support while being patient is essential.

Listening without judgment and encouraging professional help can provide the support a loved one needs during their mental health journey. PHOTO: Jethro C.

Encourage Professional Help

Sometimes, your loved one may not realize they need professional help. Encourage them gently to see a therapist, and if necessary, offer to drive them to appointments. Many times, they’ll change their mind at the last minute, but don’t be discouraged—fear and anxiety often drive this hesitation. It may take several attempts to follow through, but your persistence can help them find the help they need.

Support Their Physical Health

Mental health struggles can make even basic tasks like eating or grocery shopping feel impossible. This can lead to unhealthy eating habits, like ordering takeout or neglecting meals altogether. Help by encouraging nutritious meals and, if possible, assist them with grocery shopping. The right food is essential for their well-being.

Encourage Walks and Nature

Getting outside for a walk or spending time in nature can have a significant impact on mental health. Nature has a grounding effect, and a simple walk in the park can help clear their mind and improve their mood. Regular movement is beneficial not just for physical health, but for emotional resilience as well.

Check In Regularly

Make sure to check in with them often. This can be through a quick text, a voice note, or a video call. It helps them feel connected and cared for. Also, try to ensure that they’re not living alone. Isolation can worsen mental health, and having someone close by can be a reminder that they’re not alone in their struggle.

Small acts of support, like regular check-ins and encouraging walks, can help someone with mental health challenges feel less alone—don't forget to care for yourself too. PHOTO: Pavel Danilyuk

Build a Support System

Don’t try to carry the weight alone. Reach out to others in your community—friends, family, or organizations like your church. Ask them to send supportive messages or even visit your loved one. These connections provide them with the emotional support needed to get through tough days.

Tough Love When Necessary

Sometimes, you’ll need to exercise tough love. While it can feel difficult, there are moments when you’ll need to step in and encourage them to take action toward their well-being, even if they resist. Trust your gut on these situations; your intervention could make all the difference.

Take Care of Yourself

Supporting someone with mental health challenges can be overwhelming, so it’s essential to practice self-care. Seek support from your own network of friends and family, and make sure to take breaks for your own mental well-being. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so prioritize your own health, too.

Trust Your Instincts

If you feel something is wrong, trust your instincts. If you believe they need immediate help, don’t hesitate to step in. Whether it’s calling a therapist, driving them to an emergency appointment, or calling a hotline, your actions could save their life.

It’s Okay to Feel Confused

Being around someone with mental illness can be confusing. You may start questioning your own actions and whether you’re doing the right thing. That’s why it’s so important to talk to someone about what you’re going through. Getting perspective from others helps clarify what is sane and what is not, which will guide you through difficult moments.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

If your loved one is in danger or their mental health declines rapidly, seeking immediate help is essential. Call a crisis hotline or take them to the hospital. Your swift actions can ensure their safety and prevent further harm.

Conclusion

Supporting a loved one through their mental health struggles requires patience, empathy, and consistency. You don’t have to do it alone—reach out to others, trust your instincts, and be persistent in getting them the help they need. And remember, it’s important to take care of yourself along the way so you can continue to support them.

Take Action: If someone you love is struggling, don’t hesitate to offer support. Help them find professional help, encourage physical activity, and check in regularly to show your care.

What’s one thing you’ve done to help someone with their mental health?

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs professional support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional or contact emergency services.