The support of family and friends is critical to help someone cope with mental illness. It is also important to take care of yourself, seeking support and advice to nurture your own life, too. Here are some ways to support a person coping with mental illness:
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Get Help Early: Often family and friends are the first people to notice changes in someone. Accessing necessary supports for your loved one as soon as possible can help with their recovery process.
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Learn: Becoming educated on the signs and symptoms of mental health problems will help you understand what is happening with your loved one. Learning about medications and treatment options will allow you to be an excellent advocate for your loved one's needs.
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Provide Emotional Support: Encourage hope for your loved one. Be patient, understanding and actively listen when engaging in conversation. Understand that they are not to blame for their mental illness and remember what your relationship with them means to you.
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Self Care: It can be tough supporting someone with a mental illness. Remember that as much as your loved one needs support, you do too! Connecting with local resources for caregivers can help you feel less alone. Attending support groups for caregivers, such as CMHA ASER's Caregiver Connections, can help you learn and grow while also letting you meet others who are supporting their loved ones.
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There are many more ways you can support someone with a mental illness. For more information on helping, please see the following links: