How to Support Individuals with Mental Health Challenges

I consider myself fortunate. I live with bipolar 2 disorder, yet I am surrounded by people who grasp what that entails. Dealing with a mental illness is tough; you often feel neglected, judged, and never quite “enough” in today’s world. This can be especially challenging if you, like me, struggle to maintain a full-time job due to the stress it brings. Mental illness can be a profoundly isolating experience, leading to a disconnect with friends and a sense of misunderstanding from others.

Being around individuals who lack knowledge about moderate to severe mental health conditions can exacerbate feelings of fear and anxiety. You might find yourself wondering: When will my illness manifest? How severe will it be? Can I manage it alone? Such thoughts can cast a shadow over even the sunniest days, making you feel unloved and unaccepted.

Thankfully, I have my husband, who understands that occasionally, I need him to come home from work when my medication feels overwhelming. His colleagues are aware of my condition and don’t pry into our personal lives. My closest friends recognize that I might go silent for a while, and they respect my need for space, knowing I’ll reconnect when I can. My employers encourage me to prioritize my mental health and check in with me regularly. I am incredibly grateful for their understanding and support.

Supporting someone with mental health issues requires a specific approach. Many people may want to help, but, unlike my support network who are well-versed in mental health, others might not know how to assist effectively. According to Johns Hopkins, around 26% of Americans will experience a mental health condition in a given year, with 9.5% facing depression and 18% coping with anxiety disorders. You likely know someone dealing with a mental health challenge. Here are some ways to help.

Recognize Their Struggles

Acknowledging that someone has a mental health condition is essential. My loved ones don’t pretend my brain functions like everyone else’s. They recognize I might perceive situations differently or misinterpret emotions. When I fall silent, my husband often asks, “Are you okay, or just quiet?” This gives me the opportunity to express myself. True love involves accepting all aspects of a person, including their mental health challenges.

Be Present When Needed

Being a resource is vital. If you’re close to someone, be prepared to support them during difficult times. Sometimes, that means simply being there without needing to talk about their struggles. For example, during a tough episode, I spent time with my friend Alex in his garage, watching shows without discussing my issues. His presence alone made a significant difference. Remember, the closer you are to someone with mental illness, the more you might witness their struggles. It’s important to understand that these challenges do not define them. Before a crisis arises, it can be helpful to discuss how they prefer to be supported.

Understand Changes in Behavior

Mental illness can cause individuals to behave in ways that are out of character. This isn’t who they are; it’s a symptom of their condition. It’s wise to be observant when someone’s actions don’t align with their usual demeanor. For instance, before my last episode, I had an uncharacteristic confrontation with my supervisor, which she noted. Although she couldn’t pinpoint what was wrong, she recognized that my behavior was unusual.

Maintain Your Calm

As someone who doesn’t struggle with mental illness, it’s crucial to remain composed. This means avoiding arguments and not responding with frustration. It’s important to remember that we can’t just “snap out of it.” If someone is expressing worries or fears, they are experiencing genuine emotions, and it’s more beneficial to suggest engaging in a different activity rather than dismissing their feelings.

Recognize Mental Health as a Physical Illness

Mental health challenges can be just as draining as physical ones. When someone is in a tough place, they may need space and may not have the energy to respond to messages or calls. They’re not ignoring you; they’re conserving energy to handle daily tasks. If they were recovering from a physical ailment, you’d likely offer assistance, so do the same for mental health. Consider sending a meal or simply giving them space and understanding. Don’t judge them based on their illness; instead, offer support and grace as they navigate their struggles.

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Summary

Supporting individuals with mental health challenges involves understanding their struggles, being present, and maintaining calmness during difficult times. Recognizing that mental illness can influence behavior and being compassionate can make a significant difference in their lives.

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