How to recognise when someone is struggling with their mental health and how you can help
Recognizing the signs and knowing how to help can make a significant difference in someone's recovery journey.
It's not always easy to know if someone is experiencing mental health difficulties. People may try to hide their struggles or might not recognise them themselves. However, there are some common signs that might indicate someone is having a difficult time:
These signs don't necessarily mean someone is definitely struggling with their mental health, but they could indicate that the person might need some support. Everyone experiences mental health differently, and some people may show different signs than others.
Starting a conversation about mental health can feel difficult, but it's often the first step in helping someone get the support they need. Here are some approaches that might help:
If you're not sure how to begin the conversation, here are some gentle ways to open up the discussion:
Supporting someone who has experienced trauma requires special consideration. Trauma can fundamentally change how a person experiences the world, and your approach should reflect an understanding of trauma's impact.
If someone is in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, it's important to know what to do.
Supporting someone with mental health difficulties can be emotionally demanding. It's important to look after your own well-being too.
While your support is valuable, professional help is often important for someone struggling with their mental health. Here's how you can help them access it.
You can offer to help by:
Our directory can help you find qualified mental health professionals for yourself or someone you care about.