Mental health concerns for friends and family

Anyone can experience mental health problems. Friends, family and even co-workers can make all the difference in a person's recovery process.

Supporting a friend or family member with a mental health concern

You can help your friend, family member or co-worker by recognizing the signs of mental health concerns and connecting them to professional help.

Talking with them can be an opportunity to provide information, support and guidance. Learning more about mental health can lead to:

• Improved recognition of early signs of mental health problems.

• Earlier treatment.

• Greater understanding and compassion.

If someone you know is showing signs of a mental health problem or reaching out to you for help, offer support by:

• Find out if the person is getting the care they need and want—if not, connect them to help.

• Expressing your concern and support.

• Reminding your friend or family member that help is available and that mental health concerns can be treated.

• Asking questions, listening to ideas and being responsive when the topic of mental health comes up.

• Reassuring your friend or family member that you care about them.

• Offering to help your friend or family member with everyday tasks.

• Including your friend or family member in your plans—continue to invite them without being overbearing, even if your friend or family member resists your invitations.

• Educating other people so they understand the facts about mental health problems and do not discriminate.

• Treating people with mental health problems with respect, compassion and empathy

How to talk about mental health

Do you need help starting a conversation about mental health? Try leading with these questions and actively listen to their response.

• I've been worried about you. Can we talk about what you are experiencing? If not, who are you comfortable talking to?

• What can I do to help you talk about issues with your parents or someone else who is responsible and cares about you?

• What else can I help you with?

• I am someone who cares and wants to listen. What do you want me to know about how you are feeling?

• Who or what has helped you deal with similar issues in the past?

• Sometimes, talking to someone with a similar experience helps. Do you know of others who have experienced these types of problems whom you can speak with?

• It seems like you are going through a difficult time. How can I help you to find help?

• How can I help you find more information about mental health problems?

• I'm concerned about your safety. Have you thought about harming yourself or others?

When talking about mental health concerns

Know how to connect people to help.

• Communicate straightforwardly.

• Speak at a level appropriate to a person's age and development level (preschool children need fewer details than teenagers).

• Discuss the topic when and where the person feels safe and comfortable.

• Watch for reactions during the discussion and slow down or back up if the person becomes confused or looks upset.

Sometimes, it is helpful to make a comparison to a physical illness. For example, many people get sick with a cold or the flu, but only a few get really ill with something serious like pneumonia. People who have a cold are usually able to do their regular activities. However, if they get pneumonia, they will have to take medicine and may have to go to the hospital. Similarly, feelings of sadness, anxiety, worry, irritability or sleep problems are common for most people. However, when these feelings get very intense, last for an extended period and begin to interfere with school, work and relationships, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. And just like people need to take medicine and get professional help for physical conditions, someone with a mental health problem may need to take medication and/or participate in therapy to get better.

Getting assistance

Seek immediate assistance if you think your friend, family member or co-worker is in danger of harming themselves. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 988 or 1-800- 273-TALK (8255). In crisis situations, call 911.