Tips for how to help someone who is struggling mentally: NAMI (2020)

• Talk to them in a space that is comfortable, where you won’t likely be interrupted and where there are likely minimal distractions.

• Ease into the conversation, gradually. It may be that the person is not in a place to talk, and that is OK. Greeting them and extending a gentle kindness can go a long way. Sometimes less is more.

• Be sure to speak in a relaxed and calm manner.

• Communicate in a straightforward manner and stick to one topic at a time.

• Be respectful, compassionate and empathetic to their feelings by engaging in reflective listening, such as “I hear that you are having a bad day today. Yes, some days are certainly more challenging than others. I understand.”

• Instead of directing the conversation at them with ‘you’ statements, use ‘I’ statements instead.

• Be a good listener, be responsive and make eye contact with a caring approach.

• Ask them appropriate questions and avoid prying.

• Give them the opportunity to talk and open up but don’t press.

• Share some easy insights as a way of encouraging easy conversation, such as comments about the weather, the community or other.

• Reduce any defensiveness by sharing your feelings and looking for common ground.

• Speak at a level appropriate to their age and development level. Keep in mind that mental illness has nothing to do with a person’s intelligence.

• Be aware of a person becoming upset or confused by your conversation with them.

• Show respect and understanding for how they describe and interpret their symptoms.

• Genuinely express your concern.

• Offer your support and connect them to help if you feel that they need it. Ask, “How can I help?” if appropriate, or even, “Can I pray with you now?” if appropriate.

• Give the person hope for recovery, offer encouragement and prayers.