How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Mental Health
Nobody wants to watch the people closest to them struggle with mental health, whether it’s a partner having trouble getting through the day, a friend going through a recent life transition, or a parent experiencing anxiety. When it’s a child who may need support, the problem can be even more distressing.
Knowing where to start can be tough — you don’t want to add stress or overwhelm your loved one. If you’re concerned about them, read on to learn more about signs that they may need mental health support, and tips to guide them to the right care.
RECOGNIZING THE WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
How can you tell if someone you love is experiencing life’s everyday ups and downs or is dealing with a more serious mental health challenge?
Mental Health America has a helpful list of the many potential warning signs and symptoms, which can vary depending on age. These include:
- Drastic changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Increasing inability to cope with daily problems and activities
- Social withdrawal
If you notice any of these warning signs or symptoms, it may be time to discuss what your loved one is experiencing and if finding support could help them.
Starting the conversation
One of the most challenging obstacles in supporting someone with mental health concerns is actually starting the conversation. It’s important to show that you care, you want to help, and you’re there to listen.
Offer an empathetic, non-judgmental ear to show that you know what your loved one is going through, and help them feel heard. You’re not a professional therapist and can’t offer a diagnosis or treatment. However, you can open up the conversation and help connect your loved one with a trained professional if they’re open to seeking care. You’re there to let them know they’re not alone.
To show you care, you may want to ask open-ended questions, such as:
- It seems like you’re going through a difficult time. I care, and I’m here to listen. If you feel comfortable sharing with me, what have you been experiencing? If you’d rather not share, who would you feel more comfortable talking to?
- Have you experienced something like this before? How did you deal with with similar issues in the past?
- How can I help?
Building a Support System
If your loved one is receptive to a conversation, you may be able to help them navigate care options. Mental and physical health go hand in hand, so be encouraging. Consider care for a mental health challenge as you would for a physical issue.
Professional support may be a way to assess a mental health concern and recommend the right plan. If your loved one appears open to consulting a therapist, encourage them to learn whether therapy is right for them, and how to find the right therapist. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts members may have access to online self-guided programs, such as Learn to Live®´, to help with mild to moderate anxiety, insomnia, substance use problems, and more as well as improve overall emotional health or wellness offerings, which can improve mental health and overall wellness.
If your loved one is a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts member, there are additional resources available:
- Sign in to MyBlue to see what benefits are available as part of their plan
- Call Team Blue Member Service at 1-888-389-7764 to speak with a highly trained service representative who can help assess your loved one's needs, match them with available in-network providers, and help coordinate care
As your loved one explores and pursues care, you should remain present, patient, and compassionate. It takes time to address mental health challenges. Finding the right support and experiencing improved overall well-being don’t happen overnight. Be realistic about expectations and continue to check in with your loved one to provide support, while respecting that each individual’s path to better mental health is unique.
Always remember that supporting a loved one shouldn’t mean putting your own mental or physical health aside. Your mental health should be a priority, and it’s critical to take time daily to recognize how you’re feeling.