Individuals with mental health challenges often face stigma and discrimination, which can hinder their willingness to seek professional mental health support. Friends, family and loved ones play a critical role in helping them navigate their mental health journeys, as social support can provide a sense of belonging, improve self-esteem and significantly reduce feelings of isolation.
Understanding how to effectively offer support can make a big difference in the recovery and wellbeing of those struggling with their mental health. Here are ways that you can help:
Recognize Challenges for People with Mental Health Disabilities
People experiencing mental health challenges may not only need support in navigating the issue itself, but they may also need assistance with social and logistical barriers that can negatively impact their choices. For example, many Americans face social isolation and a lack of access to necessary mental healthcare. This could be a result of financial constraints, inadequate health insurance coverage, a shortage of U.S. mental healthcare workers, etc. Take some time to educate yourself and others about these issues from reliable, authoritative sources.
Be Present and Listen
Allow your loved one to express their feelings without judgment. Sometimes, the simple act of listening can make a significant difference for their wellbeing.
Offer Practical Help
Everyday tasks can be a burden for all of us. Alleviate some of the daily stress for your loved ones by running errands, preparing meals or contributing to household chores.
Encourage Professional Help
Break the stigma by assisting your friend or family member in seeking professional help, if they haven’t already. This may include therapy, medication or both. Offer to help them find suitable mental healthcare or accompany them to appointments. Envision Unlimited is a certified Community Mental Health Provider, offering behavioral health services to people with a variety of mental health concerns.
Develop a Mental Health Crisis Support Plan
Establishing a mental health crisis support plan can be life-saving. The plan should include emergency contact numbers, a list of medications and preferred treatment options. If an emergency room environment seems too noisy and unsettling during a crisis, consider alternative options, such as nearby Living Room programs. Envision Unlimited recently opened a Living Room in Flossmoor, Illinois.
It’s also important to safeguard your own physical and mental health as you work to help others. Remember to be patient, as navigating a mental health challenge will likely have ups and downs. Additionally, it’s crucial to set boundaries and practice self-care, so you don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
Navigate Mental Health Challenges with Envision Unlimited
Envision Unlimited is a full spectrum of care organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental illness, regardless of age, gender, background, or ability. Since 1948, we have built a legacy of evolving care delivered with empathy, every time and everywhere. Our innovative services are offered across Chicagoland and Central Illinois and include novel day programs, community living options, behavioral health services, employment programs, respite for families and foster care for children with disabilities.
If you or someone you know is struggling to manage their mental health and would like to talk, call our Mental Health Services intake coordinator at 773-506-3161.