What the Mental Health ?
There are many people out there who struggle with a mental illness, and also friends and family who are not sure how to help their loved ones. Sometimes they say one thing, thinking it is okay, when really it is completely inappropriate. Their intentions are good, but it can cause more harm than good. If someone is suicidal, let them know that there are places they can go for help and let them know you are there for them.
Things that can be helpful:
Talk to them the same way you did before.
It lets them know that you haven’t changed how you think or feel about them.
If you need anything, even just to talk, I am here for you
Be there for them, sometimes that is all they need
Things you should avoid:
“It’ll pass, don’t worry about it.”
“You’ll snap out of it.”
“Suck it up.”
“I know how you feel.”
“Don’t worry, it’ll pass.”
“Everyone goes through this.”
“It’s all in your head.”
A lot of times, someone with a mental illness, just needs to know they won’t be judged or treated different. They still need to know that what they are going through is important to them and its not to be taken lightly. They might not want to tell you everything or even anything at all, but they need to know that someone cares. The number one thing is to be supportive.
If someone is suicidal and needs help, please direct them to the suicide hotline (there are two ways to get them help):
Phone number: 1-800-273-8255
Text CONNECT to 741741
https://www.crisistextline.org/textline?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhY6i3IWV5AIVSx-tBh1ZiQRpEAAYASAAEgK7APD_BwE
https://www.encounter.health/what-not-to-say-to-someone-with-a-mental-illness/
https://psychcentral.com/blog/9-things-not-to-say-to-someone-with-mental-illness/
If you or someone you know are suicidal, please, go to your local emergency room, behavioral health hospital or call 9-1-1
