By Linda Donahue, LCSW, Clinical Coordinator at DePaul

 Life can be overwhelming, sad or scary at times.  During those challenging times, what we all want and need is someone in our corner saying, “I see you. How can I help?” All of us are capable of providing support and compassion to help family and friends get through life’s tough times.

For some, life stressors can go beyond causing discomfort, resulting in episodes of depression, anxiety, disordered eating, substance misuse or even a diagnosable mental illness, impacting the ability to function in areas including self-care, relationships with family and friends and maintaining steady employment. While help from a mental health professional may be beneficial, additional forms of support are needed to achieve remission or recovery.

The following sources are a great place to start when supporting someone with mental illness.

The Power of Connection

There is no underestimating the value of listening without judgement, sitting together for a healthy meal, laughing together, and getting outside and exercising together. Every minute spent away from the problem with a supportive person and doing something healthy for the mind, body and spirit allows for rejuvenation.

Pursuing Therapy and Family Support

A therapist can be helpful with improving communication and clarifying roles. Efforts to help even a very symptomatic person stay connected to relationships, talents, responsibilities, and their core self is also an important task for families.

Integrating Medication and Healthy Habits

The medications used for treatment of mental illnesses can often create issues such as fatigue or weight gain. Regular medical care is important to stay ahead of potential complications from side effects. In addition, exercise and nutrition are crucial in collaboration with medications and therapy. Creating a daily routine and getting quality sleep can greatly assist with symptom management.

Seeking Education and Resources

Becoming educated about the diagnosis and treatment options is another important task for families. A quick internet search will lead to unscientific, opinionated information that may prove useless at best. Reputable sources such as National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide high quality educational materials about mental health diagnoses.

Families and individuals living with mental health disorders can be connected to educational and support groups that meet virtually or face-to-face in your area. While relationships are crucial to the person experiencing the illness, the same can be said for family and friends supporting them as well.

 

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Mental health recovery is a shared journey. No one should walk it alone, as healing is fostered through connection and support.

Since 1958, DePaul has been a vital source of support for individuals facing mental health challenges. Discover more about our Mental Health Residential Programs across New York State.

Resources

The National Institute of Mental Health is a quality source for current information about mental illness and treatments.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness is a wealth of information about mental illness, treatments & supports for caregivers. They operate a free hotline & offer many programs in local areas.

The Trevor Project operates a 24/7 peer run hotline for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

For help finding a therapist or prescriber that accepts your insurance, call the customer service number on the back of your commercial insurance card.

Dr. Xavier Amador is a great resource for those with a family member who is diagnosed with Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective disorder and is resistant to treatment. Check out his Tedx Talk, ‘I’m Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!

To immediately speak with someone when having thoughts of suicide, reach out to 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988.