How to Support Someone's Mental Health

This sounds simple but is hard to do. We want to make things better when someone else is struggling. But often the most helpful thing you can do is to be in the experience with them. This means listening to understand what they’re experiencing. Be patient with yourself. This is a skill that most people have to learn.

You may experience unpleasant feelings if you do this. Putting yourself in their shoes can make you feel some feelings the person struggling has. On top of that, you might have feelings about the situation. For example, pain from seeing a loved one struggle. This is why it’s so important to get support for yourself too.

Tips for Listening

• Give your full attention when they want to talk
• Avoid interrupting or offering quick solutions
• Use phrases like “That sounds really hard” or “I’m here for you”
• Remember that listening itself is powerful help

• Ask your friend or loved one if they would share information about their condition
• Research from reliable sources like:
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI
  • Anxiety & Depression Association of America
  • Autistic Self Advocacy Network
• Consider attending a family education program like NAMI’s Family-to-Family (free)

• Ask them what kind of practical support would help most
• Offer specific help: “Can I bring groceries Tuesday?” rather than “Let me know if you need anything”
• Things you might offer:
  • Help with everyday tasks when needed
  • Provide rides to appointments
  • Help them create and follow routines
  • Assist with finding mental health resources

• Notice and acknowledge small steps forward
• Recognize effort, not just results: “I see how hard you’re working on this”
• Focus on specific positive changes: “I noticed you went for a walk today”
• Remember that recovery isn’t a straight line – good days and harder days are both part of the journey
• Let them define what success looks like