6 ways you can help someone struggling with their mental health...

One thing that people often ask , is how they can help...

The reality is that a lot of us don't really know, or aren't comfortable trying to help someone in this situation.

To be honest, I don't think those of us struggling really know either!

**The one thing I will say, is this list may not be what everyone wants, so before showing up at their house to do laundry, maybe reach out.

My number one piece of advice for anyone out there that loves someone with a mental illness?

EDUCATE yourself!!!!!

The more you know about these illnesses the more you can understand your loved one, and also be able to offer the support they need.

I've pulled together a list of 6 ways that you can help someone you care about when they are struggling with their mental health!

Lets get started...

You don't need to say or do anything, just being there can bring comfort & support. This can be in person, phone call, text....whatever works.

There is also a lot of shame around these illnesses, I think in part because they are largely misunderstood...and they are also invisible, which adds another element of these feelings.

When someone is in the thick of their illness its hard to really articulate what you need. We isolate ourselves, but in reality we don't want to be alone.

You could offer to come watch a movie, or even just come over and be there. No pressure to DO anything, just be there in person.

Another idea, if the person isn't wanting company in person is either virtual or just reaching out and checking in regularly.

This one is HUGE!

One of the major struggles with depression for example, is its exhausting to even just exist. The chores pile up, and seem impossible to handle.

Whether it’s the laundry, empty the dishwasher, cook a meal, etc.

The task you may think is small feels HUGE when you're struggling.

You don't need to say anything, or make a big deal about it. I would ask before you show up to do said tasks...

It may be hard to show, but the amount of relief and gratitude to someone who is struggling can mean so much.

sometimes just listening can be all this person needs…to be heard.

You can't fix their illness, but you can make sure they are feeling heard and supported.

This can be critical in recovery!

If someone is opening up to you about their mental health and being vulnerable, just listen.

Please don't invalidate any of the things people are saying to you, it takes A LOT of courage for us to say something...

Don't feel like you need to fix anything either, simply being there and listening to what they have to say can mean the world.

Often times when we're in the mess of mental illness we forget that we are loved, needed and cared for. We feel like a burden, and that those that love us are burdened by us or wouild be better off without us.

A simple way to support someone in this space is with love.

Send an I love you text, a memory you have with them, tell them WHY you love them.

Reminders they they're loved, needed and most of all that they are supported and seen,

This is another one that can be in person, text, email...whatever works.

Tell them all the good things they have accomplished, remind them that this is temporary!

You could also encourage them to do a couple simple things for themselves - shower, eat, walk, draw...encourage them as we know these things will help!

As a side note here - if you're concerned about their well being you could encourage them to reach out to a professional.

No words, just hug. We as living being crave connection.

There are also lots of benefits to hugs!! Here's a few:

1. Boosts dopamine and serotonin

2. Reduces blood pressure

3. Increases self esteem

4. reduces stress hormone

5. Can reduce pain

So go hug someone!!!

There you go!

6 simple ways you can help someone who is struggling with their mental health.

Do you have any other ideas of how we can support people we care about that may be struggling?

Always remember 9-8-8

Remember, you matter and I love you!

XO

Danielle