It can be extremely difficult to see someone we know and care about suffering due to mental health difficulties. We can often feel powerless to help them because we may not understand what is going on or know what we should do or say.If you suspect that someone you know may have a mental health issue, then it is important not to wait.
The individual may be reluctant to reach out to people for help, so reaching out to them first may be the best option. This isn’t always an easy thing to do and it can be hard to know what to do or say when you find yourself in this situation. Here are some tips for talking to someone about their mental health:
• Choose the right place. Make sure that the person has a calm, quiet space where they can talk about their issue without being distracted or interrupted.
• Let them share as much or as little they want to. You could very well be the first person they have had a chance to talk to about their mental health. It’s important that the individual does not feel pressurised to talk about anything they do not wish to. Let them lead the conversation at their own pace.
• Don’t try to diagnose the problem. Very often we will want to jump in and offer up solutions and remedies to problems. Instead, try to simply listen to and comfort the individual. Its ok to tell them that you are not sure of what to say or do, but you can still support them by reassuring them and by listening to them.
• Open ended questions are best. This will encourage the individual to talk about their experience without prompting them to answer one way or another.
• Focus on wellbeing. Ask them what they find helpful for maintaining positive mental health. Maybe they like to exercise or have various techniques of destressing. Focus on these and see if they would perhaps find this helpful in their current situation.
• Active listening. Providing the speaker with regular confirmation that you are listening to them can be very reassuring and will help encourage them to talk. Occasionally repeat back words that you hear.
• Offer help if they would like to seek professional support. Perhaps they would like you to visit a GP with them. Very often services will allow you to arrange an appointment on their behalf once you have their consent to do so.
• Know your limits. If you now someone who is dealing with a serious problem or if someone is in danger then you will need to ensure their safety. Ask for help or encourage the individual to seek professional help (see services below). If they have hurt themselves, ensure that they receive the appropriate medical attention.
SOSAD Ireland
041 98 48754
Pieta House
Samaritans
01 872 7700
Written by Shane MacSweeney
