Many of us have been there, where a loved one is showing some concerning behaviours, struggling to know how to react for the best. In today’s post, we suggest some ways that you can start the conversation about their mental health.
Talking can change lives and yet we underestimate it all the time. Of course, we can’t ever say that we know exactly how somebody suffering feels, but we can say that we’re there for them, we’re listening and we’ll do our best to help. So, what exactly do you say? We’d like to help by offering a few suggestions.
Go virtual
Taking the talk virtual removes some of the barriers to turning up for the discussion. For example, taking the bus, having to shower and wash our hair, or finding money for the cafe are all potential barriers to turning up to the discussion.
Have a genuine intent to listen
When we intend to listen, we are much more aware of the subtle nuances involved in the communication process. It’s easier to read the hidden subtext and be able to act with compassion and understanding. There’s nothing more frustrating than talking to somebody who you can tell isn’t listening, especially when you’ve resigned yourself to talking andjust want to ‘get on with it’. It takes courage to talk, on both sides, so the last thing you want is to waste the opportunity, especially when somebody has finally resigned themselves to having ‘the talk’.
Ask again
When you’re starting the discussion with your loved one, you may need to ask more than once if they’re ok, as many people’s first instinct is to avoid having the other person worry about them (or interfere with their life and plans), but will oftenbe more honest when pressed for information. Fewer people are so stubborn to appearing in control of their life that they’ll continue avoiding the truth.
After the conversation…
It’s all well and good initiating a conversation with your loved one, but what happens after that? We suggest a good place to start is to signpost them to some useful information, offer to support them and be there for them and even offer to go with them to the doctor or even a support group, if needed. With respect to signposting, it’s generally better to stick to official, well-respected sources, such as the NHS (if you’re in the UK) and organisations dedicated to a particular issue.
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We do our best to provide suggestions based on our experience as hypnotherapists and using nationally recognised good quality health education material, such as that provided by the NHS (UK). Information contained on our site does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to replace medical advice. You should speak to your doctor about any health concerns that you have and before making any radical changes to your lifestyle and health and fitness goals, including your quest to reach those goals.
