Listen

It takes courage to talk about emotional problems or mental health concerns. Sometimes the best thing a friend or family member can do is lend an ear. Without thinking about what you want to say next and without outside distractions (T.V., cell phones, etc.), focus on what the other person is saying. Ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. Don’t offer “quick fixes” or advice unless asked to do so.

Help the person find support

Offer phone numbers and names of organizations that can help them find their way to better health. Offer to make calls and set up appointments, and drive them to appointments if they want and if you are able. But always ask them first.

Don’t judge or blame

Whether illness is caused by genetics, trauma, or chemical imbalance, it’s not the individual’s fault. Reiterate that out loud to the person you are supporting.

Help the person remain hopeful

Point out that he or she will get better with treatment, time, and support.

Don’t label

Realize your loved one has a medical condition, but he or she is much more than the disease.

Be patient

Don’t expect miracles. Getting well takes time and, often, different treatments. Mental illness is not something you can “snap out of,” and there may also be periods of improved mental health followed by periods of more pronounced mental illness.

Pay special attention to what that person needs

If someone is experiencing difficulty, ask what they need and listen to the answers. Determine and communicate how you are able to help.

Celebrate success

Recognize the positive steps, no matter how small. Perhaps a person had been too depressed to get out of bed. A shower and a walk to the corner store is an improvement. Perhaps holding down a job has been difficult. Making it through a three-day workweek could also be a positive milestone.

Discourage using illness as a crutch

Encourage individuals with mental illness to take responsibility for what they can control in their lives, such as their treatment plan.

If you suspect a person is suicidal:

• Ask directly if the person is thinking about suicide. 
• Talk openly about suicide – it does not increase the risk. In fact, it can bring relief to someone who has been afraid to confide their suicidal thoughts.
• Talk to the person in a non-judgmental way and listen to them without becoming upset. Let the person know you care and want to help.
• Believe what the person says and take all threats seriously.
• Look into community resources (such as crisis lines and counseling services) that you can suggest to the person.
• Never keep someone’s suicidal feelings a secret. Tell someone who can help.
• Take action if you feel someone is at immediate risk. If necessary, make contact with the police, emergency services, or a hospital in order to ensure the person’s safety.

Take care of yourself

It can be emotionally exhausting to care for a mentally ill friend or family member. Spend time nurturing your own life and seek support or advice if needed.

• Medication;
• Psychotherapy and/or counseling;
• Alternative methods;
• Community support services.

Just as there are different causes and symptoms, there are also many different ways to deal with the unique aspects of each mental illness.

Medication

Medication can be a crucial component for treatment of certain mental illnesses. Physicians and psychiatrists are medical doctors able to assess an individual’s condition, work with patients to determine a diagnosis, and prescribe medication and/or other treatments necessary in order to help a patient.

Because we are each different, no one treatment or medication will work precisely the same way in two people. Sometimes patients must try different medications until they find one that “fits” – i.e., one that makes them feel better without disruptive side effects. Even the right psychiatric medication can take some time to stabilize a mental illness. While it can seem frustrating to a patient, it is worthwhile following through to find medication(s) that work with that individual.

Psychotherapy and/or Counseling

Psychotherapy and counseling are valuable components of most mental health treatment programs.

• Psychiatrists are mental health professionals who may diagnose, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy for people with serious illnesses. A doctor’s referral is required for psychiatric assessment and therapy.
  
  
• Psychologists can provide support and psychotherapies, such as cognitive therapy (which helps patients learn to effectively change their thinking, feelings, and behaviour). Most forms of psychotherapy use only spoken conversation, though some also use other forms of communication such as the written word, artwork, or touch. Psychologists work on a broad range of issues and often specialise in a particular type of psychology. Therapy may address specific forms of diagnosable mental illness or everyday problems in relationships or in meeting personal goals. 
  
  
• Counselors can also provide support, resources, and assistance to people who need help making positive changes and/or informed choices in their lives. Counselors assist people to better understand themselves by explaining options, setting goals, and helping people to take action. The counselor will talk with the individual to help get a clear idea of the problem and to determine what kinds of options are available. The counselor will then help the individual decide the best course of action.
  
  
• Social workers help people deal with personal and social problems, either directly or by planning or carrying out programs that benefit groups or communities.

Alternative Methods

Alternative methods to improve mental health can be helpful, but should not be used as a substitute for a physician’s diagnosis or treatment. Alternative approaches include:

• Self-help groups
  In these groups, people in similar situations can share advice and help and can support each other.
  
• Nutritional or naturopathic counseling
  Nutritional counseling can provide education on healthy food choices and a balanced diet in order to improve overall health. Naturopathic counseling emphasizes the body’s potential to heal itself and focuses on prevention and balance. Practitioners can provide options and education about botanical supplements and treatment of environmental toxicities.
  
• Physical exercise
  Physical exercise contributes to enhanced mood and improves overall health.
  
• Yoga
  Yoga involves physical exercise, stretching, and relaxation techniques, all of which can have physical and emotional benefits.
  
• Meditation
  Some people find meditation provides them with stress relief and improved focus.
  
• Spirituality
  Exploring one’s spiritual options through a chaplain or community church can provide people with additional support and purpose in their lives.
  
• Employee Assistance Programs
  These confidential programs offer resources and counseling to employees. They are sometimes offered through employers in medium to large organizations as part of the employee benefit package.

 Community Support Services

CMHA and many other organizations offer community support services to help people manage life with a mental illness. Areas where community services help people include:

• Housing
• Employment
• Resources or referrals
• Education
• Recreation
• Daily living skills
• Support for individuals and their family members

Many people find that a combination of strategies is what helps the most.

If you don’t have a regular family doctor, there are other options available for accessing mental health professionals:

• Go to a walk-in clinic or local hospital emergency room;
• Call Alberta’s 24-hour Mental Health Help Line from anywhere in Alberta at
  1-877-303-2642 for confidential information and referrals;
• Call Health Link Alberta, a 24-hour advice and health information line staffed by registered nurses. Call from anywhere in the province by dialing:
  • 403-943-5465 in Calgary;
  •  780-408-5465 in Edmonton;
  • 1-866-408-5465 for a toll-free line from anywhere in Alberta.

Remember, mental illnesses are treatable, so asking for help is critical to regain optimal mental health. Health-care professionals can work with you to determine the problem and prescribe the best treatment options for you.