How to Help Someone Struggling with Mental Health Problems

More than 70% of people with mental health conditions around the world do not receive the treatment they need. This is often due to a lack of awareness and the stigma surrounding mental health.

Sadly, individuals facing mental health challenges wait an average of 11 years before seeking treatment. Knowing how to support someone and encourage them to seek professional help is crucial in addressing and managing a wide range of mental health problems.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health encompasses a range of conditions, including disorders, psychosocial disabilities, and other mental states associated with significant distress, impairment, or risk of self-harm.

Among the various classifications of mental health disorders, such as neurodevelopmental, personality, and bipolar disorders, anxiety and depression are the most common. These two are also the most prevalent disorders with addiction, frequently co-occurring with it.

The interplay of biological, social, and psychological factors influences the development of a mental health condition. Some risk elements include trauma, family conflict, limited support, alcohol or drug abuse, and other stressful life events. However, the progression of a mental health concern can be minimized by protective factors such as self-help strategies, building resilience, and seeking support.

Mental health can affect several areas of life, including cognition, relationships, emotional stability, physical health, and overall functioning. If you are worried about someone’s mental health and its impact, help is available.

Effective Ways You Can Offer to Support Someone Struggling with Their Mental Health

Educate Yourself

Take the time to research and learn about what it’s like to struggle with a mental health problem. Learning the signs and symptoms to watch out for, the underlying causes, and the importance of professional mental health support can be valuable in offering help.

Be Patient and Understanding

Someone who’s struggling with their mental health may not immediately feel at ease sharing their worries. Don’t pressure them to open up, and make sure they don’t feel uncomfortable once they do. Listen and offer a nonjudgmental ear to their concerns. Healing is a gradual process – acknowledge their progress and celebrate small victories.

Engage in Active Listening

Undivided attention is necessary when listening to someone share problems to show them you are interested and genuinely care. Engage fully in the conversation, avoid cutting them off mid-sentence, and try to understand things from their perspective. This can foster a nondiscriminatory approach, encouraging them to talk more openly.

Give Assurance

Never make someone feel their struggles are nonsense or unreasonable. Don’t belittle or criticize their decisions and experiences. Instead, validate their feelings and what they’re going through by saying remarks like, “I understand how hard it is for you,” or “It’s okay to feel that way.” Empathizing and reassuring them that you can support them can make all the difference.

Practice Self-Care 

Taking care of someone in bad mental shape can be physically and emotionally draining, even when done out of care and love. To maintain your own well-being, incorporate a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep into your daily routine. Share your concerns with trusted individuals and acknowledge your need for support. Setting healthy boundaries is also necessary to avoid burnout and stress.

Encourage Professional Help

A person having a tough time may not realize how important it is to get help and treatment. Gently urge them to consult a professional for mental health services and explain that doing so does not make them weak; rather, it is a brave step towards betterment. You can discuss and explore effective treatment methods for addressing mental crises together.

Treatment Options for Depression, Anxiety, and Substance Abuse

While there are many ways to support someone struggling with mental health, these strategies are often not enough on their own and may only provide short-term relief. Seeking professional support remains the best option for long-term recovery. Below are evidence-based treatments to consider:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is recognized as the gold standard of therapies. It aims to identify and challenge irrational and maladaptive thought patterns to change them into more productive ways of thinking. CBT is effective for many mental health issues and works on the principle that our thoughts affect our emotions and actions. By choosing this approach, you can improve emotional regulation, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and enhance overall well-being.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a form of CBT particularly fitting for individuals struggling with severe distress and intense emotions. It incorporates CBT techniques with logical reasoning, mindfulness, and acceptance strategies. 

Dual Diagnosis

A dual diagnosis treatment is essential in addressing co-occurring mental health issues simultaneously rather than separately. This can be suitable for those struggling with substance use disorder and experiencing mental health issues at the same time, ensuring proper care and attention are given to both conditions.

Holistic Approach

Holistic treatment integrates traditional psychotherapy with alternative practices such as mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture, meditation, and equine therapy. This method helps in determining the causes and underlying issues that contribute to mental health states. It tackles all aspects of an individual, including the interconnection of the mind, body, and spirit, to promote self-awareness and overall health. 

Inpatient Care

Residential treatment or inpatient care facilities provide an intensive and structured environment without distractions or potential triggers, allowing individuals to focus on their healing.

Because mental health struggles can elicit harmful behaviors, round-the-clock monitoring and supervision from professionals may be the ideal option, particularly for those with unmanageable symptoms, suicidal thoughts, and other critical problems. 

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment offers a more flexible approach for those who need comprehensive care but want to maintain their daily routine and responsibilities. Since it doesn’t require an individual to stay the night in a facility, it is generally more cost-effective and beneficial for people with chronic but less severe conditions. This treatment approach involves regular check-ups and therapy sessions scheduled at your convenience and needs.

Where to Get Help

If you or a loved one is facing mental health challenges, it’s best to seek help as soon as possible. At Twilight Recovery, people are willing to listen, support, and provide the care you need. Reach out today to get better and feel better. With an experienced team, you can expect compassionate, comprehensive care at every step of your healing journey.