How to support a friend who is struggling.
You probably know someone struggling with their mental health. Often, it’s tricky to know how to support them. The stats around mental health, particularly for women, are nothing short of frightening, with one in four women experiencing a mental health condition that last for 12 months.
In celebration of R U, OK? day, we’ve got five tips on how you can support your loved one into, what we can hope will be, better and brighter days.
Actively listen: If a friend tells you they’re struggling mentally, give them the safe and non-judgemental space to say what they are experiencing without interruption and let them know that you’re there to support them.
Don’t try to “fix” what they are feeling: Let your friend to sit with whatever they are feeling. It’s important to validate their emotions, to let them know it’s okay to feel what they’re feeling.
Ask how they want to be supported: People respond to being supported in different ways, so it’s always better to ask how they’d like to be supported, rather than assume. They may want someone to talk to, a sense of normality or practical support in daily tasks like cooking or shopping to lessen their mental load.
You don’t need to have all the answers: You can gently encourage your friend to reach out to professional support and look into resources, if and when they are willing to accept them. Although be mindful to not force them to take action, or shame them if they choose not to at that time.
Check in consistently: Asking a friend how they are feeling and speaking about mental health is not limited to just R U OK day. Follow up your initial conversation with your friend within a reasonable timeframe through a catch-up, text or phone call.
How to support yourself, to better support them.
It can be tough being a source of support for someone you love and care about. You can better support those around you when you take care of your own health. Here’s six things you can do for yourself, to ensure you’re showing up a healthy source of support for your friend:
- You can’t do it all. Set boundaries where and when you need.
- Get your beauty sleep! Aim for the recommended 8 hours, or however much you know your body needs.
- Eat the rainbow. Ensure you’re fuelling your body with nutrient rich foods to feel your best.
- Keep your body moving, even if it is just a brisk walk. Bonus points for soaking up vitamin D outside at the same time.
- Reduce that screen time. We all know less time staring into the blue light is better for our minds.
- Create and nurture your own support system. Whether it’s counselling, another friend, a support group, or weekly dips in the ocean. Nurture your own circle of people and activities that help you to thrive.
Explore Luma’s mental health support options:
We offer mental health support in many areas. Explore the list below or simply give us a call. Our support team can guide you into the options that suit your unique, individual health needs.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or in a high-risk situation due to their mental health condition, immediately seek help by calling 000.
