Talking with someone you believe may be struggling with serious emotional distress can feel difficult. You may worry about saying the wrong thing. However, approaching the conversation with compassion and openness can make it easier for the person to seek help.
Choose a Calm Setting
Whenever possible, choose a private and comfortable environment where you can talk without unnecessary distractions.
Listen More Than You Speak
Give the person space to explain how they are feeling. Avoid immediately offering solutions or telling them that their problems are not serious.
Listening can help someone feel heard and respected.
Ask About Their Safety
If you are seriously concerned about someone’s safety, do not avoid the subject because you are afraid that discussing it will make things worse. Ask directly and calmly about what they are experiencing.
If you believe there is an immediate danger of self-harm or harm to others, seek emergency assistance immediately.
Encourage Professional Support
You can offer to help the person find a mental health professional, schedule an appointment, or connect with available resources.
Elvita’s mental health services include psychiatric assessments, psychotherapy and counseling, medication management, outpatient mental health care, and intensive outpatient programs.
Continue Supporting Them
Support should not end after the first conversation. Encourage appropriate follow-up care and continue checking in when appropriate.
Sometimes, simply knowing that someone cares can make it easier for a person to take the next step toward professional help.
