The Dos and Don’ts of Helping a Loved One Start Mental Health Treatment in Illinois
Around 23.1% of the US adult population lives with a mental illness. And it can be quite painful for the people around them to watch them struggle!
Whether it’s a partner dealing with depression, a family member struggling with anxiety, or someone feeling completely overwhelmed by stress and burnout, it’s natural to want to help and make things better for them.
But talking about getting professional help can feel very difficult!
Many people become defensive, shut down emotionally, or pull away when the topic comes up, especially if they already feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or misunderstood.
However, a calm, supportive approach can make a big difference. Here are some helpful dos and don’ts for helping a loved one start mental health treatment in Illinois.
The Do’s: How to Support Someone With Care
When someone is struggling with their mental health, they often feel alone, overwhelmed, or misunderstood.
The goal of the conversation isn’t to fix them, but to help them feel understood enough to open up and consider getting help.
Here’s how to go about it:
1. Use “I” Statements Instead of “You” Statements
When people are worried, they often say things like, “You need help,” or “You’re not acting like yourself.” Even when said with love, these comments can sometimes make a person feel judged.
A better approach is to speak from your own feelings and concerns instead.
For example:
- I’ve noticed you seem really overwhelmed lately, and I’m worried about you.
- I care about you, and I hate seeing you struggle alone.
This can help the conversation feel more supportive and less confrontational.
2. Focus on Changes You’ve Noticed, Not Labels
Avoid using labels for your loved one. Instead, mention the changes you’ve seen in their behavior or daily routine.
For example:
- I’ve noticed you’ve been isolating yourself more lately.
- You don’t seem to enjoy the things you used to love.
- I miss seeing you laugh and spend time with us.
This approach feels more caring and less judgmental, which can make someone more open to talking.
3. Offer Practical Help
When someone is struggling with mental health, even small tasks can feel overwhelming.
Instead of just suggesting they get help, offer to support them with it.
For example:
- Would you like me to help you look for treatment options?
- I can help make a phone call or look into insurance information with you.
- I’d be happy to drive you to an appointment if that would help.
Small acts of support can make getting help feel much less overwhelming.
4. Normalize Mental Health Treatment
Mental health care is just as important as physical health care.
Encourage your loved one to seek help through therapy or available mental health treatment programs. Remind them that going for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards feeling better and recovering.
The Don’ts: What Can Make Someone Shut Down
Even when your intentions are out of concern, certain words can make a struggling person feel misunderstood.
When that happens, they may become defensive, withdraw emotionally, or stop opening up altogether.
Here’s what not to do:
1. Don’t Rush to Fix the Problem
When someone opens up about their mental health, try not to immediately offer advice or simple solutions.
Comments like “Just stay positive,” “You need more exercise,” or “Try not to think about it” can unintentionally make a person feel judged.
Sometimes, the most helpful thing you can do is simply listen and let them know they are not alone.
Say things like:
- I’m really sorry you’re going through this.
- I’m here for you.
2. Don’t Use Guilt or Shame
Avoid playing the blame game, guilt-tripping, or using harsh language when talking to someone about their mental health.
Comments like “You’re hurting everyone around you” or “You need to get it together” can make a person feel even more ashamed, isolated, or defensive.
A calm and supportive approach is usually more helpful than using pressure or criticism.
3. Don’t Confront or Corner Them
Sometimes we feel like confronting a person in the presence of family or friends. Don’t! Unexpected confrontations can be very overwhelming for someone who is already having a hard time.
Instead, have the conversation privately in a calm and comfortable place where they feel safe and less pressured.
4. Don’t Compare Their Struggles to Other People
Avoid telling someone that others have it worse or comparing their experience to someone else’s situation.
Even if the intention is to make them feel less alone, it can make them feel misunderstood.
Mental Health Treatment Options in Illinois
If your loved one is willing to seek help, it’s important to know the types of mental health care available. For people who are having emotional difficulties but don’t need to stay in a hospital overnight, there are outpatient programs that can offer support while they live at home.
This includes:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
A full-day mental health program that provides support during the day, and people can go home in the evening.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
A treatment program that offers several hours of therapy each week, while people can continue living their everyday lives.
Helping a Loved One Start Mental Health Treatment in Illinois
You can’t force someone to get help, but sometimes, having a caring person beside them is what makes taking the first step feel possible.
At Resilience Illinois, we understand how difficult it can be to watch someone you love struggle with their mental health. That’s why our PHP and IOP programs provide a supportive environment where people can begin healing with professional care and guidance.
We can also help families understand treatment options, guide them through the admissions process, and find the treatment that best fits their loved one’s needs.
So, reach out to us today and let us support your loved one and your family!
