Written by Anvitha Mattapalli Edited by Ashmita Annamalai Layout by Karen He
It can be difficult to accept having a mental illness and reaching out for help. Read this article to learn how you can support people with mental illnesses.
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well as help you support them. Some of these effects are changes in sleep (e.g. duration, nightmares), lack of social interaction, changes in appetite, trouble with work and/or school and self-deprecating thoughts.
About 20% of all U.S. adults have a mental illness. For them, being able to accept their struggles and realize their need for help can be very difficult, which is why it’s important you know how to best help them.
Next, try to start a conversation surrounding their mental health. They may not be ready to speak yet, and that’s okay! Don’t pressure them into speaking. Instead, let them know that you care about their wellbeing and that they can always reach out to you.
First, educate yourself on the mental illness your loved one has. Knowing the causes, effects and possible triggers of the mental illness will help you determine if your loved one’s mental health is improving, as
If your loved one is ready to talk, you should be ready to listen. Do not interrupt them when they are speaking. It takes a lot of strength to ask for help, and it is your job to acknowledge that. Don’t smile or respond with humor either, as they might interpret this as mockery.
