
I don’t recall when I might have signed up for it, but I receive a daily email from Aleteia, a Catholic outreach with current events, commentary, spiritual reflections, prayer, wisdom from the saints, and more. Aleteia is Greek for “truth,” and the articles are brief but filled with substance.
Recently, one of these items by Cerith Gardiner gave some sound advice on helping those in our families, communities, and workplaces who experience mental health challenges. It can be very difficult to know how to respond and support individuals who face these struggles.
As we commemorate the Presentation of the Lord this weekend, the Light of the World revealed in the temple, it is a good time to think about those who struggle with inner
darkness at times, and bring the light of hope to each person who is a temple of the Holy Spirit.
Please note that these suggestions do not substitute for professional help for those in need, and do not provide counseling or therapy. These are simple but valuable ways all of us can be present to and encourage those who have either short-term or more lasting challenges.
1) Educate Yourself About Mental Illness: Understanding
is the first step toward compassion. Take the time to learn
about common mental health conditions, such as anxiety
disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) from reliable sources, such as a
medical professional. Familiarize yourself with the
symptoms and challenges of these illnesses to better
empathize with those who live with them. Knowing that
mental illness is often the result of complex factors --
biological, psychological, social, and spiritual -- can help
you approach those affected without judgment. Remember
that mental illness is not a choice, and recovery is not a
straight line; indeed, in some cases it’s a lifetime concern.
And more importantly, each individual’s journey is unique,
requiring patience and an open mind from those who wish
to support them.
2) Listen Without Judgment: One of the most powerful
things you can do for someone struggling with mental
illness is to listen. Offer your presence without rushing to
offer solutions or advice. Avoid minimizing their feelings or
trying to “fix” their problems. Instead, validate their
experiences by saying things like: “That sounds really
difficult. I’m here for you.” “I’m so sorry you’re going
through this. How can I support you?” Listening with
empathy creates a safe space where they can share their
struggles without fear of judgment or rejection. Even if you
don’t have all the answers, your willingness to be present is
a profound gift.
3) Encourage Professional Help: While your support is
invaluable, mental health conditions often require
professional intervention. Gently encourage your loved
one to seek help from a counselor, therapist, or
psychiatrist. Reassure them that seeking help is a sign of
strength, not weakness. If they’re hesitant, offer to help
them find resources, such as local mental health services or
support groups. You could also suggest joining them for an
initial appointment if they feel anxious about going alone.
Your encouragement and practical support can make all
the difference.
4) Be Patient and Persistent: Living with mental illness
means there will be good days and bad days. It’s
important to remain patient and consistent in your support,
even when progress seems slow or setbacks occur. Avoid
taking their behavior personally, especially if they
withdraw or seem irritable. Your steady presence can
remind them that they are not alone, even in their darkest
moments.
5) Promote Healthy Habits in Gentle Ways: Mental
health is closely tied to physical well-being. Encourage
your loved one to care for their body by suggesting small,
manageable steps such as: Going for a short walk
together, sharing a healthy meal, practicing relaxation
techniques like deep breathing and meditation, prayer,
without overspiritualizing the real challenges of one’s life.
These activities can help reduce stress and improve mood,
but be mindful not to pressure them, as this could increase
anxiety.
6) Set Boundaries and Care for Yourself Supporting
someone with mental illness can be emotionally taxing,
and it’s essential to take care of your own well-being.
Establish healthy boundaries to ensure you don’t become
overwhelmed. When you care for yourself, you’ll
be better equipped to care for others.
7) Cultivate Hope and Resilience Mental illness can
make the future seem bleak for those experiencing it.
As someone who cares for them, you can be a source of
hope. Remind them of their strengths, celebrate small
victories, and affirm their inherent dignity and worth.
Hope is contagious. By embodying a spirit of realistic
optimism and resilience, you can help them find the
strength to keep moving forward, one step at a time.
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