Seeking Mental Health Help For Someone Else

If you are worried about someone's mental health, or someone comes to you for support, tools are available to assist you in the process.

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When recognizing a friend or family member experiencing signs of mental health or substance use problems, it's important to show understanding and compassion. Express your concern and support while making sure they can get the care they need. Remind them that help is available and that recovery through treatment is possible. Early treatment can make a significant difference.

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Immediate support options include:

• Chat 988lifeline.org

• Text MHA to 741741 Crisis Text Line.

• Illinois Warmline mhanational.org/warmlines.

• 211 Information Line

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Helping Someone Stay Mentally Healthy

• Encourage them to regularly monitor their mental health.

• Discover ways to live well and stay well.

• Learn the risk factors and early warning signs.

• Get tips for boosting mental health.

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When They Show Symptoms of Mental Illness

• ​Encourage them to take a mental health screening, print the results out, and bring them to a doctor or a mental health provider.

• Find a mental health agency in your community.

• Learn more about mental health conditions.

• Read up about the different treatment options.

• Have them use a worksheet or tool to improve mental wellness.

 

Common Symptoms of Mental Illness

• Anxiety

• Irritability

• Argumentative

• Mood swings

• Self-harming

• Getting too much or too little sleep

• Isolation

• Less able to cope

• Problems concentrating

• Memory problems

• Eating too much or too little

• Suicidal thoughts​

 

Symptoms of Drug Addiction

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WebMD resource: Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction​

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What to Do When Symptoms Worsen​​​

• Find a therapist.

• Find a support group.

• Find strategies to support a friend or loved one who is dealing with a mental illness.

• Plan for crisis by setting up a Psychiatric Advance Directive.

• Is hospitalization necessary?

• Read more about inpatient options.

• Learn about how you can support a friend or loved one who is dealing with a mental illness.

• Tips for being an effective caregiver.

 

If you believe it's time to confront your loved one about a mental health problem, offer your support by following these suggestions:

• Connect him or her to help.

• Express your concerns AND support for them.

• Remind them that treatment is available.

• Listen to them.

• Offer to help them with everyday tasks.

• Include them in your plans.

• Help them educate themselves and understand their mental illness.

• Always show your respect, compassion, and empathy.​

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How to Talk About Mental Health

• Be straightforward with communication.

• Have the conversation in a safe environment.

• Take it slow if needed.

• Don't: minimize how they feel, let your emotions rule your response, or call them crazy.

• Do: listen to them, learn about mental illness, and normalize mental health issues.