We’re living in a time, in which mental health struggles are at an all-time high. Mental health disorders and experiences occur throughout all socioeconomic ranges, races, and ages. Even if you yourself aren’t personally experiencing a mental health-related struggle, you more than likely know someone personally who is experiencing mental health challenges. It can be difficult to recognize and accept when someone we love is struggling mentally. Knowing how we can actively support a loved one can help us when seeing a loved one affected by mental illness.
Recognize and Challenge Stigma
Stigma is no stranger to people. Like it or not, we all have our own stigmas and biases. It can be a challenge to face our own inner views of mental illness. Taking the time to recognize and challenge the stigma against mental health, can better aid us in supporting a loved one who is hurting.
Reach Out and Listen
In various mental health-related concerns, isolation is a common occurrence. Reaching out to a loved one is a way to show that they are on your mind. Where it be a text, phone call, or FaceTime. There are times when just knowing that someone is there to listen can be medicinal.
Get Outdoors
If you and your loved one live nearby, ask them to go outdoors with you! Engaging in an outdoor walk, going on a swim, or simply going to an outdoor lunch can help your family members reduce isolation and loneliness.
Humor
They say laughter is the best medicine! We live in a time where humor is in our hands. Sending a loved one a funny meme, YouTube video, or TikTok can be what brings a smile to their face that day. Offering to meet with your family member to watch a funny movie, comedy special, or play a fun game can brighten their day and yours.
If you would like assistance addressing different ways you can approach supporting a loved one with mental health challenges, give Tx Harmony Counseling a call or contact us here.
