Tips for how to communicate mental health #LetsTalk
- HPRC
- Jan 29, 2020
- 2 min read
Mental health is an issue that affects everyone. In today's society, there is a negative stigma on mental illnesses. This stigma comes from the lack of knowledge and general inability to communicate to those struggling with their mental health. As a society, we should do better to refrain from alienating those we deem mentally ill and start offering support to those around us.
"Many of us feel that support requires an active intervention. However, much of the time, the mere act of being present and listening is the most supportive." - Dr. Steve Levine
Be respectful
Don't make the person feel bad about their mental health issues. They need to understand that you care and are willing to support them while they go through some bad days, sometimes it takes a lot for them to reach out in the first place. Take the time to reach out and be empathetic when you talk to them.
Listen
Listening is key to any relationship. Listening shows that you care. Don't wait for your turn to talk and stay attentive to what they say. Most of the time we are not active listening but instead planning what we will say back to them, work on ignoring your own agenda and fully engage with what they are saying. This will help you better understand their feelings and how to communicate with them.
Don’t dismiss them
No one wants to feel like a burden. You might not have time and their problems might not be your own, but dismissing them or their problem could cause their problem to worsen and for them to feel alone. Sometimes all they need is reassurance and some company.
Check in
Everyone has bad days and some people don't show it, but for those with mental illnesses, their bad days can stretch on for weeks. Don't just help them with their problem one day and think you're done - reach out for the next couple days to make sure that they're doing better and help them if they're not. Some great ways to check in is get coffee with them, maybe go watch a movie with them, make them know they are not alone. Sometimes all it takes is a phone call or a text.
For more help with mental health challenges here are some resources;
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Humber Specific:
Humber Counselling
North Campus: Student Wellness & Accessibility Centre - 416-675-5090
Lakeshore Campus: Student Welcome Centre - 416-675-6622 ext. 3331
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