How to Support a Friend with Mental Health Issues

Although more and more people are experiencing mental health issues, it is still common to feel some kind of stigma or discrimination associated with these problems. This often results in feelings of discomfort and shame for those dealing with mental health issues and can even worsen their condition.

But what exactly is the stigma surrounding mental health?

Stigma involves not recognizing the person as a whole, focusing only on their diagnosis, and viewing them more negatively because of it.  In this sense, there are some actions that can be taken to reduce the stigma around mental health issues, starting with one's social circle and support network.

Several studies indicate that people with friendships (whether close or not) are less likely to suffer from issues such as depression. Especially after the Covid-19 pandemic, we understand that isolation and the absence of social connections, even less significant ones, can be harmful to both physical and mental health.

In the context of mental health and creating safe and positive spaces, the question arises: "How can we help someone with mental health issues?" There are various ways to support loved ones dealing with mental health issues while respecting the boundaries and needs of everyone involved in the relationship:

• Create spaces within the relationship where friends feel seen as a whole and comfortable discussing their problems without fearing it will change how they are perceived.
• Talk openly about psychological health issues in a supportive and informed manner, encouraging others to do the same. This could include introducing different mental health projects (e.g., Ivory Therapy), thus increasing others' sources of knowledge on the topic.
• Show concern and empathy for those in less favorable mental health situations. For example, create moments of connection through deep and meaningful conversations, asking questions, and practicing active listenin.
• Offer support and help, as well as a positive attitude towards life and, most importantly, towards the success of treatments for psychological health issues.
• Create spaces for closeness and contact (e.g., hugs), always in a consensual manner.
• Be there for a friend in need by creating social moments/events where the person can be included, from outings to a nightclub to a small snack at home. Avoid situations of social isolation.
• Establish moments of mirroring by doing tasks together, so the person can feel externally motivated and achieve goals that might seem out of reach. 

The importance of interaction and presence is equally emphasized for people we consider "acquaintances." These types of interactions are generally beneficial for the day-to-day narrative experience and provide a different structure. In this sense, positive actions can include saying a few words to a coworker we only share the company's dining space with or to the young receptionist at the office we visit monthly.

While there is a positive narrative around supporting and interacting with others, it’s understood that supporting friends with mental health issues can be daunting and come with a great sense of responsibility. Therefore, it’s crucial to remember that the support given to friends should always consider personal boundaries and needs so that the support does not become harmful to the supporter.

At times, despite all efforts to create environments that promote mental health for a loved one, there may be no noticeable improvement. This can lead to feelings of frustration and concern, but there are possible responses: 

• It's important to emphasize that mental health is as delicate as it is complex, with many variables at play in the process of improvement. Sometimes, the best approach is to express our concern about their health and offer support in finding solutions.
• As mentioned in previous articles, seeking trusted professionals is essential for promoting mental health. We can assist our friend by recommending professionals with whom they might feel safe—such as those at Ivory Therapy—so they can receive specialized support.

In summary, friendship is a powerful tool in combating and preventing mental health issues. However, friends are not expected to save others at the cost of their own health. Support and assistance are pillars of a healthy friendship, but it's important to recognize individual limits and the crucial role of psychologists in the treatment of mental health problems.