If someone you care about is going through a difficult time, then it can be hard to sit back and watch. Naturally, you will want to do something to help ease the strain they are under and improve things for them, but you may not know where to start. Here are some helpful hints and tips of things you can do to help someone you know who may be experiencing a difficult time.
Listen and listen carefully
Communication during a crisis is key. You want to ensure that that person feels heard and understood. Be sure to give them the attention they need and listen to their concerns intently. Think about your body language and your eye contact, where possible, allow them to lead the conversation and do all the talking. Avoid putting words, thoughts, or feelings into their mouth. Further, it is important that they feel they can talk to you openly and in confidence. Try to approach these conversations with empathy and without judgment. Avoid placing labels on their feelings, such as good or bad and just acknowledge them for what they are.
Seek professional help
No matter how much you want to be able to resolve a situation there will be times where the help they need is out of your remit. It may be that they need the help of professional counseling services for example or professional bodies dedicated to dealing with the crisis they are experiencing. It could be they are in need of a women’s shelter or rehab center such as Sunshine Behavioural Health. There is no shame in acknowledging that you are out of depth and in fact seeking professional help could be the best action you take for both you and them.
Learn to spot the signs
It may be that a person you care about is struggling with their mental health or entering a crisis or and they either don’t realize it or don’t want to acknowledge it. In times like this, it may be that you have to look for and identify the signs that they are struggling before they come to you for help. Here are some common signs to watch out for that may indicate your loved one is in need of help;
- A change in mood, particularly low mood or feelings of anxiety.
- A change in sleep habits, could be from either sleeping for prolonged periods of not getting enough sleep.
- Poor personal hygiene
- Social withdrawal, they may start withdrawing from gatherings, events, or even society in general and become more reclusive.
If you are concerned that a loved one is exhibiting these signs and it is more than a ‘temporary blip’ then don’t be afraid to reach out and discuss it with them or if you feel it is needed to seek professional help. It may be that you seek professional help to advise you on how best to deal with the situation before referring them for help. If you think you need help to better protect a loved one in crisis then be sure to get it, you cannot help anyone if you do not first help yourself.
