According to the Mental Health Foundation, depression could become the leading global cause of illness by 2030 if left untreated. So, lets discuss ways to support someone with mental health challenges. Timely and accurate diagnosis followed by effective treatment is crucial in addressing this growing issue. In our society, mental illness is often surrounded by shame and taboo, leading many individuals to suffer in silence without seeking help.
On World Mental Health Day, let’s explore some effective ways to support your loved ones coping with mental health issues and make a positive difference in their lives:
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #1 Educate Yourself About Mental Illness
Understanding the signs and symptoms of mental illness is the first step in providing support. Early indicators can include sleep disturbances, feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low self-esteem, difficulty remembering things, inability to make decisions, lack of concentration, constant worry and stress, and an inability to relax. Physical symptoms such as sore muscles, irritability, and twitching may also be present. By educating yourself, you can better recognize and respond to these signs in your loved ones.
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #2 Challenge the Social Stigma
Mental health stigma can prevent individuals and families from seeking the support they need. Encourage your loved one to address their mental health issues openly and assist them in seeking professional help. Consulting a counselor or doctor can be a crucial step if your loved one is struggling to cope with their illness.
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #3 Engage Them in Daily Activities
Involvement in daily activities can significantly reduce negative thoughts and feelings of depression. Partner with your loved one for an exercise plan, go for walks together, or join a reading club. These activities can provide a sense of normalcy and improve their overall mood and well-being.
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #4 Treat Them With Respect
Individuals with mental illness often feel they have lost control over their lives, face stigma, and suffer from low self-esteem. It is essential to treat them with respect and dignity, regardless of their symptoms. This can help rebuild their self-worth and foster a supportive environment.
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #5 Encourage Open Communication
Encourage your loved one to talk about their symptoms and feelings. Open communication with a counselor or trusted individual can alleviate some of the emotional burdens they carry and provide them with the support they need to manage their mental health.
Ways to support someone with mental health challenges – #6 Convey Hope
Always reassure your loved one that with continued treatment and counseling, they can lead a healthy and happy life. Conveying hope and optimism can significantly impact their recovery journey and motivate them to stay committed to their treatment plan.
Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness or an inability to cope. They are serious health conditions that require proper management, just like any other medical issue. The support of friends and family is paramount in speeding up recovery and re-establishing self-esteem and self-worth. This World Mental Health Day, look around you and offer a helping hand to someone struggling with mental health issues.
Parmanand Medical Centre, under the guidance of Dr. Shekhar Shrivastav – HOD Orthopedics of Sant Parmanand Hospital (Civil Lines, Delhi) specializes in Orthopedics and also offers its service in the departments of Cardiology, Gynecology, General Medicine, Dermatology, Physiotherapy & Diagnostic Tests.
We believe that everyone should have a moment and moderate access to the best health specialists, in their locality. At Parmanand Medical Centre, Yamuna Vihar, this is the conviction that brings us all together and our objective is becoming substantially more and more vital due to the huge and developing issue of the absence of access to reasonable medicinal services.
If you have any inquiries regarding our physicians or services, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Parmanand Medical Centre. You can contact us by calling (+91) 997-116-4152 or by sending an email to [email protected]. Additionally, you can click here to access our location on the map or request an appointment. We extend our best wishes to you and your family for a healthy and joyful time.
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