It can be very difficult when a loved one is struggling with a mental illness. Do you feel like you do not know how to help a loved one with a mental illness? It is okay not to have all the answers. Being there for that individual, listening to, and caring for them is most important. You do not have to know or understand their complete illness to support them and be there for them.

Learn to know what signs to look for with your loved one. Is your loved one being distant, having trouble with sleep, or having problems with work? Express to your loved one that you are there for them and willing to listen. Try not to jump to conclusions about their health. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help if they seem to be getting worse.

Serious mental illnesses can include bipolar disorder, OCD, Depression, panic disorders and anxiety, etc. Symptoms of mental illness can overlap with other illnesses and problems so try not to jump to conclusions.

Here are some signs to look for in your loved ones:

• Social anxiety or withdrawal
• Changes with sleeping and eating habits
• Severe mood swings
• Thoughts of harming themselves
• Drug or alcohol abuse

Focus on these important tips when helping a loved one with a mental illness:

• Approach the issue at hand. If you are noticing signs of mental illness express your concerns to your loved one. Be there for them by showing you are there to listen and support them. Show patience and kindness to how they are feeling. Try not to be judgmental and be open-minded to what they have to say, they are truly the ones experiencing the symptoms. Let your loved one know that they are strong and that it is okay to get help from trained professionals.
• Do your research and educate yourself on mental illnesses. The more research you do the more you will understand what your loved one is going through. Once you know more then there is more you can do to help. Find local resources and support groups for your loved one.
• Work closely with other loved ones. It is okay to bring family in on what is going on so that everyone can help. Family can also help you while you are helping your loved one with their mental illness. Lean on others that you and your loved one feel comfortable with and trust with what is going on.

• Let your loved one make their own decisions. You can’t make someone want to get help. Even when they do reach out for professional help, they must go down the route of what treatments may be best for them. Only they know themselves, their body, and their mind. All you can do is be there as support without trying to make decisions for them. Ask your loved one what they’d like you to help with or what you could do together. Try to set realistic expectations so neither of you become overwhelmed.
• Do not forget about yourself. Always take care of your physical and mental health as well. It is important to recognize your limits when it comes to helping a loved one with a mental illness. Join a support group for families or reach out to a therapist. Do not expect that you can do everything for your loved one.

Be easy on yourself! It is okay to have mixed emotions such as, fear, anger, shame, guilt, and more. It is okay to not know everything. Be there in confidence and allow your loved one to express how they are feeling. Encourage them to seek help and to keep striving daily for optimal health. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can!