Seeing someone you love struggle with their mental health can be heartbreaking. You want to help, but you might not know how or whether what you do will even make a difference. You might worry about saying the wrong thing, making them feel worse, or overstepping boundaries. But the truth is, your care, compassion, and presence matter more than you may realize.
It can be difficult to watch someone you care about face anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health challenge. You can’t “fix” their pain, but you can be a steady source of comfort, understanding, and encouragement.
Signs Your Loved One Is Struggling
Sometimes, it’s easy to tell when someone is having a hard time emotionally. Other times, the signs are subtle or masked behind a smile. People who are struggling with their mental health often try to hide their pain out of fear, shame, or not wanting to burden others. That’s why paying attention to changes in behavior is so important.
Here are some signs your loved one may be struggling:
- Changes in mood or personality. You might notice that they seem more irritable, withdrawn, or emotional than usual. Maybe they’ve lost interest in things they once enjoyed or seem unusually anxious or sad. Mood swings or increased frustration can also be signs of emotional distress.
- Isolation or withdrawal. If your loved one stops spending time with friends or family, avoids phone calls, or cancels plans frequently, this could be a sign they’re struggling internally. Isolation is often a coping mechanism for people who feel overwhelmed or ashamed.
- Changes in sleep or appetite. Sleeping too much or too little, eating far less or more than usual, or showing a lack of energy can be indicators of depression or anxiety.
- Difficulty functioning in daily life. You may notice that they’re struggling to concentrate at work, often forgetting things, neglecting hygiene, or having trouble keeping up with responsibilities.
- Expressions of hopelessness or guilt. If your loved one says things like “I’m a burden,” “What’s the point?” or “Everyone would be better off without me,” these statements should be taken seriously. They can be warning signs of severe depression or suicidal thoughts.
- Substance use or risky behavior. Sometimes, people turn to alcohol, drugs, or other risky behaviors to cope with emotional pain. If you notice this pattern, it may be their way of trying to manage symptoms of mental distress.
What to Do to Help and Show Support
When someone you love is hurting, your first instinct might be to try and fix what is wrong. But mental health recovery doesn’t work that way. What your loved one needs most is your compassion, patience, and willingness to listen. Here are some meaningful ways to help:
1. Start With an Honest, Gentle Conversation
Find a quiet moment to check in with your loved one. Listen without judgment or interruption. Sometimes, just being heard is the first step toward healing.
2. Avoid Minimizing Their Feelings
You might be tempted to say things like “Everyone is sad sometimes” or “It’ll all work out.” While you mean well, these phrases can make your loved one feel dismissed. Instead, validate their experience. Try saying: “That sounds really hard. I can’t imagine how painful that must feel, but I’m here with you.”
3. Encourage Professional Help
If your loved one hasn’t already sought treatment, gently suggest that they reach out to a mental health professional. You can offer to help them look for a therapist, make an appointment, or even go with them for support.
If your loved one’s symptoms are severe or they express thoughts of self-harm, don’t wait—encourage immediate help. You can contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or take them to the nearest emergency room.
4. Learn About Their Condition
If your loved one has a diagnosis, learning more about it can help you better understand what they’re experiencing. Education allows you to separate myths from facts and respond with empathy rather than frustration.
5. Respect Their Boundaries
While you may want to be involved in every step of their recovery, it’s important to give your loved one space to heal in their own way. Respect their privacy and autonomy, even if they’re not ready to share everything with you.
6. Help With Daily Tasks
Mental health struggles can make everyday life feel overwhelming. Offering practical help—like cooking a meal, cleaning up, or running errands—can take some stress off their shoulders.
Even small gestures show that you care. Your kindness can remind them that they don’t have to face everything alone.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with a mental health condition can be emotionally draining. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure to take breaks, talk to your own support network, and practice self-care.
Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your loved one. It means you’re ensuring you can continue to be there for them in a healthy way.
You Can Make a Difference
You might not be able to “fix” your loved one’s pain, but your support can make their recovery journey less lonely and more hopeful.
If your loved one is struggling, Palms Behavioral Health in Harlingen, Texas is here to provide the guidance and support they need to begin feeling better. Please reach out to us today to learn more about our programs and services.
