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 health conditions are medical issues, not personal failings. We wouldn’t tell someone with pneumonia to ‘snap out of it,’ 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. Develop coping strategies for when symptoms feel hard to understand. Just as physical illness or pain can make anyone more irritable or withdrawn, mental health symptoms can sometimes affect how people interact. If you’re feeling confused or upset, talk to your loved one’s care team to develop some strategies. Remember, these behaviours are usually 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 is experiencing a mental health condition, it can sometimes feel emotionally or physically challenging for their family, friends, and colleagues.
For more information on mental illness, resources in your area, and support for both you and the people you care about, contact your assistance program. You are not alone.