How to support someone struggling with mental health

Listen actively

Allow the person to speak and be attentive, maintain eye contact, and avoid interrupting. Let them share their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment.

Validate their feelings

Statements like ‘It's ok to feel this way’ or ‘Your feelings are valid’, really help to feel understood and supported. Validation helps build trust and opens the door for deeper conversations. They can open up more and tell you the root causes.

Do not offer unsolicited advice

While it might be tempting to offer solutions as we want them to get out of their pain, and issues, unsolicited advice can sometimes feel dismissive or be taken for granted. Instead, ask if they want advice and handle the situation gently.

Encourage professional help

Suggesting professional help can be a sensitive topic. Bring it up with care, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Patience is the key

Be patient with their progress and setbacks. It can be really slow and frustrating. Avoid pressuring them to ‘snap out of it’ or ‘look on the bright side’. Recovery is a journey not a quick fix.

Offer practical/daily support

Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference. This could include assisting with daily tasks, helping them find a mental health professional, accompanying them to appointments, walking their dog, cooking a meal, etc.

Check-in on them

Regular check-ins can show that you care and are there for them consistently. A simple message or call can remind them they are not alone.

Respect their boundaries

While it’s important to be supportive, it’s equally important to respect their need for space or privacy. Be attentive to their cues and avoid being overbearing. Let them know you’re available whenever they’re ready to talk.

Upgrade yourself

Educating yourself about the issue and understanding more about the specific mental health condition will help you provide better support.