Five Words of Encouragement for Loved Ones Experiencing Mental Illness

The holidays can be stressful for everyone, but for someone who is experiencing a mental illness, such as depression or anxiety, this time of year can be more difficult. You may be lost for words on what to say to your loved one, so read through the following to understand how to best help them.

1. Words of affirmation

Saying, “I love you,” or “I’m here for you,” are simple ways to show your loved one that they are not alone; you’re there for them and care for them. The holidays may bring up childhood memories, grief from losing someone they loved or stress from too many people in one area, so giving them words of affirmation will help ease their nerves.

2. Reassure them

Your loved one may spiral into overthinking about a gift, be overwhelmed with too many family members around or worry about a recipe they made. Reassure them about their worries. Tell them it will be OK and that you support them. Tell them that it’s OK if they aren’t OK. They need to feel reassured about their feelings.

3. Ask what they need

Everyone processes mental illnesses differently. Some express themselves with anger, distancing themselves, not eating as much, having trouble sleeping, etc. By calmly asking what your loved one needs, they may feel heard and know what they need from you. Often times, they just want to be supported. But, it’s important to learn how they want to be supported. Whether it’s through breathing exercises, talking through their feelings, or cooking dishes you know they’ll want to eat, you can provide what they need the most.

4. Support their decision to seek professional help

Your loved one may want to seek counseling or try medication for their mental illness. By encouraging them to do so, they can feel less judged and more supported. Seeking help can feel like they’re being defeated, but in reality, they’ll feel much better by understanding how their brain works. By telling them that you support their decision to seek help, you’re helping them take the next step to caring for themselves.

5. Celebrate their small victories

Whether your loved one gets out of bed or accomplishes a chore at home, say how happy you are to see them and express gratitude for any help they provide. Feeling wanted and seeing how small things can easily add up can help them have a sense of purpose. If you think they need extra help in seeing the good in life and celebrating themselves, encourage your loved one to start a gratitude journal. They can feel safe in writing down their feelings while trying to grow their mindset on small blessings.

Photo: ©iStock.com/Zinkevych