Breaking the stigma: supporting your loved ones through mental health struggles

Life is indeed like a roller coaster ride! Sometimes, it's a thrilling adventure full of adorable moments, but the very next moment there are days when it seems like we're stuck in a loop with no way out. During those challenging days, when the weight of difficulty bears down upon us, we find ourselves in need of additional support, a guiding hand to steady our journey.The journey for the caregiver can be overwhelming and challenging; you may not know how to express concern to your loved one or how to approach the situation but it plays a vital role in their journey to healing and recovery. In this article, we will explore practical and mindful ways to be there for your loved one.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from depression globally, and over 260 million are living with anxiety disorders. Each of us has our own ability to manage stressors and adverse events. Some people are more resilient, and some may have better coping skills, but we are all fragile to some extent.

Here are five ways you can support a friend with a mental health condition:

1. Starting the Conversation:

One of the hardest but most important steps may be starting a conversation with the person you’re concerned about. Remember, you don't have to be an expert, nor do you need to have all the solutions. Simply begin by expressing your genuine concern and willingness to be there for the person. Reassure them that you care about them and are there for them.

  For example:

    - “I know you’re going through a lot. What can I do to help?”

    - "I may not fully understand what you're going through, but I genuinely want to. If you're comfortable talking about it, I'm here to listen and stand by your side."

    - “I noticed you’ve been quiet/haven’t been around much lately. Is something going on you want to talk about?”

2. Listen without Judgment and Avoid Giving Uninvited Medical Advice:

Someone dealing with mental health challenges already receives a lot of unsolicited advice, leaving them feeling ashamed and uncertain. Sometimes, the best support we can offer is being a listening ear, setting aside our beliefs, and just being there for our friend. Let that person know you are there for them and will not judge you. Instead of offering advice, ask how you can help them and what they want from you. Also, remember, if you approach a loved one and they are not open to talking, it’s important to respect their wishes.

3. Suggest seeking Professional Help:

Let them know that therapy offers a unique and safe space to explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It's a place where you can freely express yourself and gain valuable insights about your inner world. Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage and self-empowerment. Just as we prioritize our physical health, our mental and emotional well-being deserve the same attention and care.

  Options include:

·      Sharing websites of local therapists or support groups

·      Giving them a reality check of how therapy session might look like

·      Searching together for a therapist

·      Checking up on them after their therapy sessions

4. Seeking Support for yourself:

Absolutely! As the safety briefing on an airplane reminds us, "First, help yourself before assisting others." Prioritizing self-care ensures that caregivers can maintain their physical and emotional strength, preventing burnout and ultimately enhancing the quality of care they can offer. It ultimately leads to better care for their loved ones.

5. Check in with Your Loved One Regularly:

Send a text or make a phone call to let them know you are thinking about them and still care. While they may not be reaching out to you themselves, try to make plans as you normally would. Make simple plans like going for a walk, doing art, or just sitting and watching reels. They may make excuses, but later they will feel loved and less isolated.

Let us encourage them to seek the help they truly deserve, empowering them to take that important step towards a brighter and healthier tomorrow. Individually, we are drops, but together, we are an ocean of support, making a difference in their journey and standing by their side.