When a loved one first gets diagnosed with a mental health disorder, the caregivers undergo a gamut of emotions, ranging from shock and disbelief to anger and, often, total denial. It can be very heart-wrenching to witness the slow mental deterioration of a loved one – sibling, parent child, spouse. You feel helpless, not understanding how to offer support and care. Not to mention the whole new development being emotionally overwhelming and exhausting.
Here are 5 actionable tips from someone who has navigated this path for many years now.
1. Embrace the fact
When a loved one is diagnosed with a mental health disorder, it can be challenging to accept the fact, as you experience a bewildering range of new emotions. But remember that they are still the same person you have always loved. And they still need you and your support, although they might not be able to communicate it. Embrace the fact and empathize with the person.
2. Educate yourself
The first step to take care of a loved one suffering from mental health disorder is to educate yourself. Read information from authenticated sources, seek help from online depression counselling experts to understand the signs, symptoms, the treatment plan, and how you can offer help and support. Know that there can be many treatment options like medication, counselling, therapies that can be helpful. Researching and educating yourself can empower you and help you look forward to the future with hope.
3. Listen with empathy
Sometimes, all your loved one needs is someone to listen to them. Listen without being judgmental, be empathetic. Do not try to offer unsolicited advice even if you mean well. Instead, offer reassurance and hope, and ask them how you can help them. Be mindful of their feelings because what may appear trivial to you might be exhilarating for them.
4. Holistic counseling services
Seeing a loved one suffering is painful. You might want to “fix” everything, but know that no one person can fix everything. So, build a healthy support system around your loved one and yourself. Knowing that there are people who love them can work wonders. It will save you, too, from burnout. If your loved one is suffering from depression, seek out professional holistic counselling to understand the way forward. Ensure all the caregivers involved in the support system are aware of it too.
5. Take care of yourself
Taking care of a loved one struggling with mental health disorder can be exhausting. When you put someone else’s health first, there is the possibility that your health and wellness fall through the cracks. You need to be in your best shape to take care of someone else. Eat a healthy diet, sleep well, and exercise. Go out for a walk or just take some time off while someone else takes care of your beloved. If you’re feeling too low or hopeless, consider taking online counselling for depression and ask for support.
Remember, your love and support can make a lot of difference to your loved one who has recently been diagnosed with a mental health disorder. If you’re feeling too overwhelmed at the moment, know that help is just a click away. Consider taking professional counselling services at the earliest. Finally, keep patience.