It can be hard to see your loved on struggling with a mental illness. Recovering from a mental illness can be a long and draining process. People with mental illness may experience fluctuations in their symptoms and day to day lives. When caring for a person with mental illness, even the smallest tasks can feel impossible. Below are tips on how you can a help your loved one.
Learn about the mental illness
It is important to seek out opportunities to educate yourself about the specific mental illness as this can help you understand what they are going through. The things you can learn include the symptoms they might experience, possible treatments and common side effects of the medication. Educating yourself with the mental illness can also help you to fully participate in your loved one’s ongoing care.
Talk to your loved one about their mental illness
Talking to your loved one about their mental illness can help them feel supported and less alone while they recover. It is important to be non-judgmental when you talk to them so they can be more open. Validate their feelings by saying things like ” I can see that this is hard for you” as this can make them feel understood.
Offer practical help
People recovering or living with mental illness may find it hard to complete daily chores. You can aid them in completing those tasks e.g. helping them clean, shopping and meal prepping. Eating well and living in a pleasant environment can aid their recovery.
Encourage them to see a mental health professional
Caring for a loved one might be a lot of work for you alone. Help from a mental health practitioner is also needed. You can help your loved by helping them seek professional help.
Help them with their medication
People with mental illness may have problems with taking their medication. Some people may be forgetful and end up not taking their medication, so it is important to remind them. The stigmas surrounding mental illness also make it hard for some to adhere to treatment. Encourage your loved one to take their medication and highlight the advantages of taking their medication.
Take them to appointments
Accompany your loved one to their appointments so they don’t feel alone.