May 1, 2024

Helping your loved one lift the stigma of mental illness

TELUS Health

Illnesses have a ripple effect—reaching beyond one individual to touch their family members, friends and colleagues. Mental illnesses are no exception. A mental health diagnosis may cause feelings of embarrassment, shame, even fear and anger, isolating someone at a time when they most need understanding and support.

How stigma can hinder treatment for mental health illnesses

The fear of disapproval, rejection, exclusion, and prejudice causes many people to avoid disclosing their mental health condition and seeking support. Yet social isolation is a huge risk factor for the development of some mental illnesses, especially depression, and can greatly hinder recovery for all mental disorders. The World Health Organization declares stigma to be the “single most important barrier to overcome in the community.”

One thing is clear: it's difficult for anyone to deal with mental illness alone. A supportive network made up of family members, friends, colleagues, medical professionals, and community agencies is important for everyone involved.

Tips for supporting your loved one

It’s often hard to know how to support someone struggling with a mental illness. Here are some tips:

Be informed. Finding out as much as you can about mental illness, treatments and what services are available in your area can help make you a valuable resource for your loved one.

Don’t judge. Mental illnesses are medical conditions, not moral weaknesses or character flaws. We wouldn’t tell someone with pneumonia to “snap out of it” or “get it together,” we’d encourage them to seek treatment. Reassure your loved one that you care.

Be available to support. Your loved one may need support with accessing services as there may be stigma where there is supposed to be help. Offer to make calls, help with everyday tasks, find information, or drive the individual to appointments. While social isolation can worsen many mental illnesses, you should always ask first if they feel comfortable with the help you’re offering. Asking them how they’re doing is good, but also talk about the things you’ve always talked about and have fun with each other.

Develop coping strategies for challenging behaviours. We’ve all done it. Snapped at our partner, child, or colleague because we have a cold or a sore back. We tend to direct our negative feelings at those closest to us. We don’t intend to do this, and we usually feel upset at our actions. The same is true for those dealing with symptoms of a mental illness. However, if challenging behaviours are leaving you feeling confused, embarrassed, or upset, talk to your loved one’s care team to develop some strategies. Keep in mind that such behaviours are probably not meant to be personal.

Have realistic expectations. The recovery process is often not a straight line, nor does it happen quickly. Know what to expect and that setbacks and relapses can occur.

Know what to do in a crisis. Take any signs of self-harm or talk of suicide seriously and get help immediately. If the person has attempted suicide and needs medical attention, call 000. Do not leave them alone.

Keep yourself well. It’s important that you care for your own physical and mental health, especially during times of stress. Try to follow a healthy diet, keep active, get enough sleep, and find times to have fun! Remember that it is okay for you to feel frustrated and anxious, and that at times you may lose your temper easily. You are human after all. If you need support, talk to your GP, find a support group, or see a therapist.

When someone has a mental illness, it can be emotionally and physically challenging for their family, friends, and colleagues. But when everyone comes together to create a strong support system, recovery is much more likely.

For more information on mental illness, resources in your area, and support for both you and the people you care about, contact your assistance programme. You are not alone.