The Do’s and Don’ts of Supporting Friends with Mental Illnesses

Mental illness can be a difficult and isolating experience for those who suffer from it, which is why the support of friends and loved ones is crucial. However, it’s important to know the right ways to support and communicate with a friend who has a mental illness, as well as the things to avoid. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of supporting friends with mental illnesses, so you can be there for them in the most effective and compassionate way possible.

Do: Be an Active Listener

Being an active listener is an important aspect of being a supportive friend to someone who is going through mental illness. 

Active listening means truly hearing and understanding what the person is saying, without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice. It involves paying attention to the person’s words and nonverbal cues and responding with empathy and understanding.

When a friend is going through mental illness, they may be feeling isolated, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. By actively listening to them, you are validating their experiences and letting them know that they are not alone. This can help them feel heard, understood and supported which can lead to a reduction in their symptoms and a better sense of well-being. 

It also allows them to express their feelings and thoughts which can help them process and cope with their mental illness.

Don’t: Make Suggestive Comments

Making suggestive comments like “That doesn’t sound bad” or “You’ll be fine” to a friend who is going through a mental illness can be hurtful because it minimizes their feelings and experiences. It suggests that their struggles are not valid or important and that they should be able to simply “get over” their mental illness. 

This kind of response can make the person feel misunderstood, alone, and unsupported in their struggles.

It can make them feel like they cannot confide in you about what they are going through. 

It’s important to remember that mental illnesses are a real and serious condition that requires understanding, empathy, and support. Instead of minimizing their struggles, it’s better to offer a listening ear and a supportive attitude. 

You can also help them seek professional help if they need it.

Do: Be Patient

Being patient with a friend who is going through a mental illness can be incredibly beneficial for them. 

Mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression can be incredibly isolating, and having a supportive friend can make all the difference. 

Being patient means understanding that recovery is not always a straightforward or linear process and that setbacks may occur. It means understanding that the pace of recovery may be slower than desired, and may require multiple attempts to find the right treatment or therapy.

Another important thing to remember is that everyone’s experience with mental illness is unique and different, so being patient means being open and non-judgmental of their experience. 

It is true that people may not be ready to talk about their illness or may not have the words to express how they feel. By being patient, you can provide a safe space for your friend to talk and support them in their journey to recovery.

Don’t: Take it Personally

When a friend is going through a mental illness, it can be difficult to know how to react or what to say. It is important to remember that their behavior and words may not be a reflection of their feelings towards you, but rather a symptom of their mental health condition. 

They may not have control over their emotions or actions and may not mean to hurt or upset you. 

Taking their words or actions personally can create unnecessary strain in the relationship, so it is best to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. 

Remember that your friend is going through a difficult time, and try to support them in any way you can. 

It’s also important to keep in mind that everyone’s experience with mental health conditions is different and it’s important to respect their journey.

When a friend or someone close to you is struggling with their mental health, it can be difficult to navigate through their struggles. Being sympathetic and understanding is the most appropriate response to delicate situations like these. Your efforts will go a long way with your loved ones because you did it the correct way!

Jonas Hill Hospital & Clinic, a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital provides our community with safe, dignified and integrated care for adult patients experiencing an acute mental health need. We provide hope, treatment, and healing through a holistic program of evidence-based psychiatric treatment, team-based medical care, and education provided by engaging and dedicated professionals in a safe and healing environment. Contact us today for more information. A safe space to heal.