Ways to Help Others

Mental health is a significant aspect of overall well-being, and helping others manage their mental health can make a profound difference in their lives. For teenages, young adults, and their parents, understanding how to support freinds, family members, and peers is crucial.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health affects how individuals think, feel, and behave. Issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health conditions can impact daily life and overall happiness. Recognising the signs of mental health struggles and knowing how to offer support can create a supportive environment that promotes well-being.

Recognising the Signs

Understanding the signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health is the first step in offering support.

Common signs include:

Persistent sadness or low mood
Excessive worrying or anxiety
Withdrawal from social activities
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood swings

If you notice these signs in someone, it's important to approach them with care and compassion.

Ways to Help Others with Their Mental Health

Listen and Offer Support: Sometimes, the best way to help is to simply listen. Encourage the person to talk about their feelings without judgement. Show empathy and validate their experiences. Listening without offering solutions immediately can be very supportive.
Encourage Professional Help: If someone is struggling significantly, encourage them to seek professional help. This might include speaking to a GP, a counsellor, or a mental health professional. The NHS Inform website provides comprehensive information on accessing mental health services in Scotland.
Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage healthy lifestyle habits that can improve mental health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices are beneficial. The Mental Health Foundation emphasises the importance on physical activity and a balanced diet in maintaining mental health.
Stay Connected: Maintaining connections can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. Encourage regular social interactions, whether in person or through digital means. Young Scot highlights the importance of staying connected with friends and family for mental well-being.
Educate Yourself and Others: Educating yourself about mental health can help you provide better support. There are numerous resources available, including those from SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health), which offers information and advice on various mental health conditions.
Be Patient and Understanding: Recovery from mental health issues can take time. Be patient and avoid pushing the person to "snap out of it". Offer consistent support and reassurance. Breathing space, a mental health support service in Scotland, advices being patient and understanding with those who are struggling.
Create a Safe Environment: Ensure that your home or social environment is safe and supportive. Avoid situations that may trigger stress or anxiety for the person. This includes being mindful of how you talk about mental health and avoiding stigma.
Encourage Positive Activities: Engage the person in activities that they enjoy and that can boost their mood. This might include hobbies, sports, or creative pursuits. The Mix, a support service for young people, suggests encouraging participation in positive activities as a way to support mental health.
Look After Your Own Mental Health: Supporting someone else can be challenging. Ensure you also take care of your own mental health and seek support if needed. This can include talking to a trusted friend, family member, or professional.

Conclusion

Helping others with their mental health is an important and compassionate act that can significantly impact their well-being. By recognising the signs, listening without judgement, encouraging professional help, promoting healthy habits, and staying connected, you can provide meaningful support. Using resources from organisations such as Mind, NHS Inform, the Mental Health Foundation, Young Scot, SAMH, Breathing Space, and The Mix, can guide you in offering effective help. Remember, supporting others also means taking care of yourself, ensuring that you can continue to be a source of strength and comfort for those in need.