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How to Support a Friend Through Mental Health Challenges
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
When someone you care about is struggling, it’s normal to stress about saying the right thing or doing enough, so we’ve put together some tips for navigating how to support a loved one who is struggling with their mental health.
Even if you don’t personally identify as having a mental health condition, you likely love someone who does. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2022, there were an estimated 59.3 million adults aged 18 or older in the United States facing mental illness. This number represents nearly one in four U.S. adults.
Many people experiencing challenges to their mental health may not openly ask for help out of fear, embarrassment, or feeling that they may be a burden to others. That is why small moments of connection matter so much! Sending a simple text message, checking in after a difficult day, or remembering something they shared previously can remind them that they are not alone. Consistent kindness and patience can help build trust over time. Even if someone is hesitant to talk, the knowledge that they have a safe and comforting person close by can give hope.
Listening 101:
Everyone needs someone to talk to. Sometimes, the best form of emotional support for a struggling friend is just being there. It’s important to be wary of rushing into unsolicited advice and to instead offer supportive, open listening. Whether you’re supporting someone with depression, supporting someone with anxiety, or supporting someone with mental health concerns you might not fully understand, a listening ear is the first step to a healthier state.
Key Ways to Be an Active Listener:
Be mindful of their boundaries. Leave it up to them to decide how much they’re comfortable sharing and when. Not everyone will be willing to share everything right away, and that’s okay. Respect their pace and readiness to seek help. Simply giving them the space to share their feelings is vital to recovery.
Try to listen more than you talk (although be mindful that silence can also be harmful). Thinking of what to say to someone struggling can be a challenge but validating their feelings with phrases such as “That sounds really tough.” or “I am here for you” can make all the difference.
Check in consistently. Kindly invite them for a walk or their favorite treat, even if they have said no before.
Ask open-ended questions like:
“How are you feeling today, really?”
“What can I do to support you right now?”
“Is there something that would make today feel a little lighter for you?”
Offering emotional support to a friend doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers.
What Not to Say to Someone Struggling:
Even when well-intended, some phrases can come across as minimizing or dismissive. Avoid comments like:
“At least...”
“It could be worse.”
“Everyone gets stressed.”
“Just stay positive.”
“That’s just life.”
Professional Backup: How and when to encourage professional help
There is absolutely no shame in seeking professional help, and it’s okay to let your loved one know that. While your support can help more than you realize, you cannot always substitute for a professional. Therapy and support from mental health professionals can provide resources, coping strategies, and treatment plans tailored to an individual’s needs. If someone seems hesitant, try approaching the conversation with care rather than pressure. If they seem open to it, gently and kindly encourage them to connect with a professional can truly make a difference.
Try saying:
“Getting help does not make you weak. It takes a lot of courage to reach out.”
“Talking to a therapist may help. Have you considered it?”
“I can help you find someone to talk to about mental health treatment if it feels too overwhelming right now.”
Signs Someone May Need to Reach Out to a Professional:
Knowing when to encourage professional help can be especially crucial if someone’s symptoms are worsening, affecting daily life, or involving safety concerns. Here are some specific things to look out for:
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they usually enjoy
Struggling to complete daily responsibilities at work, school, or home
Experiencing intense sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, or irritability that does not seem to improve
Sleeping far more or far less than usual
Using alcohol or substances to cope with stress or emotions
Talking negatively about themselves constantly or expressing feelings of worthlessness
Having difficulty eating, concentrating, or managing emotions
If someone is talking about hurting themselves or appears to be in immediate danger, treat it seriously and seek help right away. Calling 988 or reaching out to our crisis line: (866) 837-7521 will help connect them with immediate support.
Mental health and substance use challenges can also overlap more than many people realize. Sometimes people turn to alcohol or substances as a way to cope with stress, trauma, anxiety, or depression, which can make both struggles more difficult over time. Compassion and support can help someone feel safer taking that first step toward treatment.
Being there for someone during a difficult season does not require perfect words or all the right answers. More often than not, what people remember most is who stayed, who listened, and who reminded them they did not have to go through it alone.
For individuals and families seeking North Mississippi mental health services, Communicare provides support for those of all ages facing a wide range of behavioral health and emotional challenges. Access to quality mental health resources can help people feel supported, understood, and empowered to move forward. If you or someone you care about is in a situation involving a crisis, call our 24/7/365 crisis line anytime at (866) 837-7521.
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