“When you can’t look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark.” – Alice in Wonderland.
I believe that supporting a friend or loved one with mental illness is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences a person can have. Mental illness, which impacts people globally, is a severe and complicated ailment that remains cloaked in stigma and misinformation despite its prevalence.
From a personal standpoint, navigating interactions with individuals in the throes of a mental health issue has caused me considerable difficulty. I recollect being faced with this scenario when one of my dearest friends was struggling with depression and borderline personality disorder; my response to this situation was one of uncertainty and helplessness. No matter what I said intending to help, nothing seemed to get through to them, which made me reconsider my approach as a friend. At junctures throughout our relationship, it felt more natural for me to avoid them entirely rather than engage. It had become far simpler to push them away than to embrace them and confront the pain of loving someone grappling with such weighty issues. Our fear stemming mainly from not knowing how to or what to say could potentially make matters even worse, ultimately rendering us incapable of contributing meaningfully to their well-being – a thought process that could further increase our anxiety around this matter.
My early years taught me that being present, empathetic, and patient in providing the best care for those struggling is the apt approach. It is crucial to realize that mental illnesses cannot be cured overnight; they often require love, understanding, and unfailing support for healing. Listening attentively and extending compassionate help without judgment or criticism is paramount to supporting your loved ones through challenging times. In certain circumstances, a practical approach involves being there for them and offering them a secure haven for expressing their emotions.
Think of a plant for a moment. Doesn’t it require a combination of sunlight, hydration, and nourishment to survive and flourish? In a parallel stride, akin to such a plant, is an individual living with mental illness. They require a combination of love, support, and empathy to heal and grow holistically. Just as a plant can wilt and die if deprived of the proper care, a person suffering from psychological problems can suffer and deteriorate without adequate support that nurtures their well-being.
Although medication plays an imperative role in treating mental illness, community support is equally crucial for the healing process. Dealing with mental illness can feel lonely and isolating; having someone to lean on can significantly improve the patient’s outlook. Offering your loved one empathy, patience, and understanding can make them feel less alone and more supported. This support system gives them a sturdy foundation to overcome their illness. It is of utmost importance that we remember to encourage our loved ones simultaneously to seek the professional help of mental health experts alongside support from friends and family members. We must not attempt to play the role of unlicensed counsellors in their lives because only a certified doctor or therapist would know what course of action will suit them best. So if someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to extend hopefulness by offering unreservedly your love, strength, and encouragement – a supportive social milieu could be the fuel they require the most to put the recovery process in motion.
