Supporting A Loved One With A Mental Health Disorder

1. Be more of a listener; Sometimes we don’t have to feel like we need to advise our loved ones on what to do next. Active listening is more effective as it gives them an opportunity to express their true feelings regarding their situation. 

2. Empathy: Getting to imagine how their feeling and understanding their perspectives makes them understood. 

3. Try to magnify their achievements; In most cases, individuals with mental health issues might be looked as people who can’t take care of themselves because of their mental status. However, its also important to note that instilling some level of independence and pride in them might take a positive turn especially on their self-confidence and self-esteem. 

4. Reflect their feelings; This is quite close to being empathic, but its more of responding to what they say and how they feel. Through this, it can enable the individual to navigate some of the real causes of their issues. 

5. Maintain Confidentiality; This is an important aspect especially when a patient feels extremely vulnerable. Do not take this opportunity to go around and disseminating information without their consent. The only point where this can be compromised is when the individuals experience suicidal thoughts or they are at a risk of harming another person. Once they trust you then they might opt for treatment. 

6. Suggest different options where they can seek help and if possible, connect them to a mental health professional who they can reach out to when they’re ready.

By khalifa Khalid

Hospital Psychologist

Chiromo Hospital Group