OPENING UP TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHY SHOULD I SPEAK UP? Talking out loud about your mental health is a great way to process what you are actually feeling, while also releasing the burden of keeping those feelings/thoughts a secret. It also informs others that you may need checking in on now and then when there is a time of need you can feel less alone.
WHAT SHOULD I SAY? Wait for the right time to begin the conversation, perhaps a place where there will be no interruptions. You could begin by saying: "I don’t really know how to say this and I’m finding it difficult to talk about what I’m feeling."
WHAT IF THEY AREN'T HELPFUL? You need to keep in mind that the person you have opened up to may not know exactly what to say, as we all process news and information differently. The important thing is that you are taking the first step towards getting help and you have given them the opportunity to be there for you. If your family/friends cannot give you the support you need we have other resources who can!
THE FLIP-SIDE If someone opens up to you about their mental health and you aren’t too sure what to say, first of all – don’t beat yourself up, it can be hard to know the perfect thing to say on the spot. All you can ask of yourself is that you listen openly and do not judge them. After they have finished talking you could then respond with something like:
"This isn’t easy for me to talk about…I will do
“I’m not sure what to do but I’m sure we can
my best to explain."
figure it out together”
“I’m having a bit of a tough time at the
“What can I do to help? Just tell me how”
moment; do you mind if I talk about it with
“I am glad that you have told me, I hate the
you?”
thought of you dealing with this alone”
“I haven’t been feeling like myself lately, it
“I know it doesn’t feel like it now but there is
has been affecting me quite a lot”
hope that things can get better” “Do you feel like doing something together to help take your mind off things?” Student Written - With Suggestions from
