Best Ways To Cope With Any Mental Illness

Getting Started And Addressing The Problem

Opening the dialogue is perhaps one of the most challenging and crucial steps. Don’t be scared to bring it up. You don’t need to be a specialist or have all the answers to contribute. Show your concern and readiness to listen and support the individual.

Remind them that you are concerned about them and will be there for them. Use “I” statements whenever possible. Instead of “You are” or “You should”, use “I am concerned about you…” or “I would encourage you to consider speaking with a counselor…”

Try to be patient and sympathetic, and refrain from passing judgment on their ideas and actions. Listen to the person’s feelings rather than dismissing or challenging them. Encourage them to speak with a mental healthcare professional or their general practitioner if that is more helpful.

Being empathetic and putting themselves in others’ shoes might benefit certain people. Assure them that reaching out for assistance is a reflection of strength. Sometimes, it could be you who is going through a lot but aren’t sure how to help yourself. It is okay to feel what you feel.