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The ME Association has been providing expert help since 1980. We understand the challenges faced by people with ME/CFS and Long Covid and believe that nobody should struggle alone. We provide a safe and welcoming community for people to come together and benefit from sharing their experiences. We offer reliable and timely information using ...
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The organisations listed here offer advice on how you can help others: Find support on the Hub of Hope. Samaritans: If you're worried about someone else. Mind: Helping someone else. Rethink Mental Illness: Carers hub. Movember has guidance on how to start conversations with men who are struggling. Time to Change: Tips for talking about mental ...
- How Do I Know If Someone Has A Mental Health Problem?
- Eight Tips For Talking About Mental Health
- How Do I Respond in A Crisis?
- How Do I Respond If Someone Is Suicidal?
- Useful Organisations and Resources
Sometimes it will seem obvious when someone is going through a hard time, but there is no simple way of knowing if they have a mental health problem. Sometimes you don’t need to know. It’s more important to respond sensitively to someone who seems troubled than to find out whether or not they have a diagnosis. Although certain symptoms are common w...
1. Set time aside with no distractions
It is important to provide an open and non-judgemental space with no distractions.
2. Let them share as much or as little as they want to
Let them lead the discussion at their own pace. Don’t pressure them to tell you anything they aren’t ready to talk about. Talking can take a lot of trust and courage. You might be the first person they have been able to talk to about this.
3. Don't try to diagnose or second guess their feelings
You probably aren’t a medical expert, and while you may be happy to talk and offer support, you aren’t a trained counsellor. Try not to make assumptions about what is wrong or jump in too quickly with your own diagnosis or solutions.
People with mental health problems sometimes experience a crisis, such as feeling suicidal or experiencing their own or a different reality. You may also feel a sense of crisis, but staying calm is important. There are some general strategies that you can use to help: 1. Listen without making judgements and concentrate on their needs at that moment...
If someone tells you they are feeling suicidal or can’t go on, it is very important to encourage them to get help. You or they should contact a GP or NHS 111. They can also contact the Samaritansimmediately by calling 116 123 (UK) for free anytime. They could also get help from their friends, family, or mental health services. You can ask how they ...
The first person to approach is your family doctor. they should be able to advise about treatment and may refer you to another local professional. See our guide on How to talk to your GP about your mental health.
Simply giving someone space to talk, and listening to how they're feeling, can be really helpful in itself. If they're finding it difficult, let them know that you're there when they are ready. Offer reassurance. Seeking help can feel lonely, and sometimes scary. You can reassure someone by letting them know that they are not alone, and that ...
Show trust and respect. Trust and respect between you and your friend or family member are very important – they help to rebuild and maintain a sense of self-esteem, which a mental health problem can seriously damage. This can also help you to cope a bit better if you can see your support having a positive impact on the person you care about.
Is a person you care about struggling with a specific problem or diagnosis? Take a look at our tips on how to support someone dealing with these issues: . Anger problems. Anxiety and panic attacks. Bereavement. Bipolar disorder. Body dysmorphic disorder. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) Coming off medication.
People also ask
How can I help someone with mental health issues?
How can I help a friend with a mental health problem?
How do I support someone who is ready to seek help?
How do I support someone if I'm not doing it alone?
Get information about the services available to them, such as an NHS talking therapy service or depression support groups in their area. Stay in touch with them by messaging, phoning or meeting for coffee. People who are depressed can become isolated and may find it difficult to leave their home. Try to be patient. Take care of yourself.
