Let's Talk.... About Mental Health. 9 Things You Need to Know.
Hey, um, we need to talk…
…about mental health. 1 in every 4 people experience a mental health problem, yet we don’t talk about it. Don’t get me wrong, we have come a long way from just throwing “crazy” people into mental institutions, but there is still so far to go. Part of it is that there is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental illness, but part if it is because sometimes, we just don’t know what to say. So, what can we do to support someone who wants to discuss their mental health?
1. Listen. The most important thing to do when someone is disclosing their mental illness is to simply listen. Don’t listen to respond, let them finish their sentences, and know that it’s okay to take a moment to take in what they’re telling you.
2. Let them know you understand. Whether you have been through a similar situation or not, you can connect with them on a human level and let them know that you can understand the emotion behind what they are telling you. At the very least you can express to them that you understand the courage it took to tell you something so personal and thank them for trusting you.
3. Avoid being judgmental. Don’t tell them they are being weird or crazy. Being judgmental will only prevent them from trusting you in the future.
4. Take them seriously. Don’t minimize how they are feeling or what they are going through by saying “you’re just having a bad day” or “at least tomorrow will be better”. Let them know it’s okay to be feeling the way they are and that you believe them.
5. Make yourself available to talk again if needed. Mental health struggles usually aren’t solved with one conversation. Let the person know that they can come to you again in the future if they feel they are struggling.
6. Don’t turn what you’ve been told into gossip. If someone tells you something in confidence, it probably took a lot to work up the nerve to say anything in the first place. Just because they told you something doesn’t mean it is now your information to share. Let them share with others on their own terms.
7. If you don’t understand, do some research. There is a lot of misinformation about mental illnesses. If you feel that you might be uninformed about a certain mental health issue, learn more with reputable resources.
8. Tell an adult if you have to. If someone tells you that they have thoughts or plans to harm themselves or someone else, tell an adult. Their safety and the safety of others is more important than keeping a secret. It doesn’t make you a bad friend, it simply means that they need more help than you can give. If you’re the trusted adult of someone who has these thoughts, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is important to gather as much information as you can to make sure that everyone stays safe.
9. If someone you know is in crisis. If someone you know needs help urgently, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text 741741, go to your local Emergency Room or call 911.
Written by: Olivia Clark