Lesson 4,
Topic 1
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Tips to provide support
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When a person is impacted by a mental health challenge, family, friends and peers can play an important role in their journey to recovery.
Use these tips to provide support and reassurance to those closest to you.
Treat the person with respect and dignity
Each person’s situation and needs are unique. It’s important to listen nonjudgmentally and respect the person’s privacy and confidentiality, unless you are concerned the person is at risk of harming self or others.
Offer consistent emotional support and understanding
Your loved one needs additional love and understanding when going through a difficult time, so remember to be empathetic, compassionate and patient. Offer the person kindness and attention and let them know that there is no risk of abandonment.
Have realistic expectations
Accept the person as he or she is and have realistic expectations. When going through a tough time, it can be harder than usual to do everyday activities like cleaning the house, paying bills or feeding the dog. Acknowledge that the person is not “faking,” “lazy,” “weak,” or “selfish.”
Give the person hope
Remind your loved one that with time and treatment, they will feel better and there is hope for a more positive future.
Provide practical help
Offer the person practical help with overwhelming tasks but be careful not to take over or encourage dependency.
Offer information
Offer the person information and resources for additional support, including self-help strategies and professional help.
It can be overwhelming, tiring and frustrating at times to help someone who is dealing with a mental health condition. In these situations, take time to protect your own mental health and remember that you are an important part of helping someone on their journey to recovery.
