What to do to help your loved one with spiralling mental health
It’s estimated that around a million people in London are affected by common mental health conditions, with that number making it into the millions across the rest of the country.
Many more are affected by severe and enduring mental ill health according to a report from the Greater London Authority, and as a result families all across the city are doing what they can to support those struggling.
Severe mental health conditions are affecting more people from bipolar disorder to major depression and psychotic disorder, often leaving people no choice but to have a family member sectioned in order to get them the help they need. But what exactly can you do if you have a family member who’s mental health is spiraling and becoming more and more severe?
Listen and Offer Emotional Support
Naturally, the first step is to offer support emotionally. You should listen to what they’re going through without judgement and create a safe and open space where they can feel comfortable in expressing their fears, concerns and any feelings they may have. Allow them to understand that they can talk whenever they need to.
Listen actively and validate their feelings. You’re there to be a compassionate listener and keep the conversation open, providing them with signs that convey empathy and support.
Encourage Professional Help
Professional help is so, so important for loved one’s whose mental health is spiralling. Intervention by a specialist can help them find more efficient coping mechanisms and manage their condition in a healthier manner.
If your loved one is reluctant to accept help, whether that be a therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist, try to remind them that it’s a sign of strength, not a weakness, and that there are so many valuable things that can be learned from it that will not just boost mental health in the short term, but for the rest of their lives.
Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices
One of the key triggers of mental health conditions can be unhealthy lifestyle choices, whether that be drinking alcohol or taking drugs, or even just a poor diet.
Promoting healthy habits can help ease day-to-day stress and mental health conditions, with the following all key in doing that:
- Regular exercise
- Balanced diet
- Regular sleeping patterns
- Regular relaxation time
- Staying hydrated
These can boost overall mood and ensure the brain remains more focused and clear to tackle mental health conditions.
Be Mindful of Your Own Wellbeing
Supporting someone with spiralling mental health can be emotionally taxing. It’s essential to care for your own mental and physical well-being as well. Being overwhelmed can hinder your ability to support your loved one effectively. Here are some strategies to maintain your wellbeing:
Set Boundaries: It’s important to establish boundaries to prevent burnout. Determine how much time and energy you can realistically devote to supporting your loved one without sacrificing your own needs.
Seek Support for Yourself: Consider speaking to friends, family, or even a mental health professional about your feelings. Sharing your experiences can provide you with the emotional support needed to continue being there for your loved one.
Encourage Social Interaction and Activities
Isolation can exacerbate mental health issues, so encouraging social interaction can be beneficial. Gently suggest engaging in activities they once enjoyed or exploring new interests together. This could include joining clubs, attending workshops, or simply going out for a meal.
While respecting their need for space, remind them that social connections can provide comfort and distraction from negative thoughts. If they’re not ready for large gatherings, start small by inviting a friend over or going for a quiet coffee together. The goal is to help them reconnect with the world around them at their own pace.
