Written By: Mfon Michael Okon
Human Resources, ICTMH
Introduction
Supporting a loved one experiencing mental health challenges is very important and quite instrumental to their recovery and well-being. Understanding, empathy, patience and appropriate support can significantly impact their journey towards healing and mental stability. This training aims to equip you with knowledge, practical skills, and compassionate approaches to assist your loved one effectively.
- Understanding Mental Health
Mental health is a vital part of overall health. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and others are common and treatable (World Health Organization [WHO], 2017). Recognizing that mental health issues are medical conditions, not personal failures, fosters empathy and better support.
Recitation:
_”Mental health issues are medical conditions, just like physical illnesses, requiring compassion and proper support.”_ (WHO, 2017)
- Recognizing Signs and Symptoms
Be attentive to emotional, behavioral, and physical changes, such as:
– Persistent sadness, irritability
– Withdrawal from social activities
– Changes in sleep and appetite
– Expressed feelings of hopelessness
– Increased substance use
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2020), early recognition of symptoms can lead to prompt support and intervention.
- Effective Communication
– Active Listening: Try to pay full attention without judgment. Listen to understand them , not just to respond. Create a safe space where they feel heard without judgment.
– Validate their Feelings: Acknowledge their emotions without minimizing or dismissing them , remember , you may not fully what they are dealing with and exactly how they feel. Avoid minimizing their experience with phrases like “It’s not that bad” or “Just think positive.”
– Encourage Expression: Gently ask open-ended questions, e.g., “How are you feeling today?” , “How have you been feeling lately?” instead of offering immediate solutions
Quote:
_”Listening is one of the most powerful ways to show you care. Let your loved one share at their own pace.”_ (Rogers, 1957)
- Offer Support and Encouragement
– Be Patient; Understand that recovery takes time; so, avoid rushing them.
-Understanding symptoms, triggers, and treatment options helps you offer more informed and empathetic support
– Assist in Seeking Help: Encourage consulting mental health professionals. Offer to accompany them if needed.
– Respect Boundaries: Respect their privacy and autonomy.
Supporting quote:
_”A kind word or act can help lighten their emotional burden.”_ (Hemsley & Boggess, 2002)
- Practical Ways to Support
– Assist with daily tasks if they’re overwhelmed
– Encourage healthy routines (exercise, balanced diet, sleep)
– Reduce stigma by educating yourself and others around you
– Be consistent and reliable
Huang, et al. (2019) suggest that social support and routine stability are crucial in mental health recovery.
- Taking Care of Yourself
Supporting someone can be emotionally taxing. Make sure to:
– Maintain your own mental health
– Seek support from friends, support groups, or professionals
– Set boundaries to avoid burnout
_”You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself ensures you can support others.”_ (Self-Care Foundation, 2018)
- When to Seek Emergency Help .
If your loved one exhibits:
– Suicidal thoughts or gestures
– Self-harm behaviors
– Severe psychosis or agitation
Conclusion
Supporting a loved one with mental health struggles requires patience, compassion, and knowledge. Your understanding and encouragement can make a meaningful difference in their recovery journey.
References
Hemsley, D. R., & Boggess, L. (2002). *Helping a loved one with mental illness. Mental Health Journal.
Huang, Y., Liu, M., & Lu, H. (2019). The role of social support in mental health recovery. Journal of Mental Health.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Symptoms of mental illness. https://www.nimh.nih.gov
Rogers, C. R. (1957). The necessary and sufficient conditions of therapeutic personality change. Journal of Consulting Psychology.
Self-Care Foundation. (2018). Self-care strategies.
World Health Organization. (2017). Mental health: Strengthening our response. https://www.who.int