Helping someone

Sometimes, we all just need someone to listen to us.

As an individual you play an important role in helping others live a mentally healthy life. However, it is important for you to understand that you are not a counselor or therapist. Do you best to support someone else by actively listening and validate (confirm) their feelings and struggle as real.

You aren't their counselor or therapist.

As much as you may want to help, keep in mind that you aren't a trained mental health professional. Understand that your role as a friend, sibling, parent, or peer is much different than a mental health professional's role. It's important that you be a consistent form of support by showing that you care and instill hope by encouraging the use of healthy coping behaviors. However, don't try to fix their problem. When it comes to overcoming a mental health challenge, it takes a team. Each member of a team has a different role, so understand yours.

Here's a useful list of effective coping skills that are helpful for people who are struggling: https://positivepsychologyprogram.com/coping-skills-worksheets/

Refer, refer, refer

Encourage your friend to talk to a trusted adult--especially Mr. Ball, who is a trained professional counselor and is always willing to talk to anyone. See the Resources tab in this page for additional options for mental health treatment.