Tips to help someone struggling with mental health or substance use
Provide emotional support
Avoid pressuring them to talk. Let them take the lead. Be patient. Maintain self care.
Be a good listener
Avoid minimizing their experiences or telling them what to do. Avoid taking over with your own experiences.
Rebuild trust and safety
Express your commitment to the person. Minimize stress. Speak of the present and the future and keep your promises.
Deal effectively with anger
Watch for signs of anger or a sudden change in emotions. Try to remain calm. Give the person space. Ask “How can I support you?”
Take care of yourself
Take care of your own physical needs. Cultivate your own support system. Ask others to help. Set boundaries.
