Mental health disorders affect a person’s moods, thoughts, and behaviors. Being diagnosed with a mental health disorder can be upsetting for the individual and their friends and family. However, with a diagnosis comes answers and a path to recovery. It is scarier to watch a loved one deteriorate and not understand why or how to help. At Harmony Hills, we know that family members can play an invaluable role in recovery from mental health disorders, so we offer a comprehensive family therapy program in Florida.
Talking to a loved one about mental health can be difficult, but it is also an opportunity to share information, offer guidance, and lend support. If you need advice on talking to a loved one about the need for mental health treatment, contact Harmony Hills today. Our experienced staff can get you the information and support you need. Call 855.494.0357 to learn more.
Recognizing Mental Health Disorders in Loved Ones
Recognizing the signs of mental health disorders can be challenging. People often deny their symptoms, downplay them, or hide them altogether. Other problems can mimic mental health symptoms. Before confronting them, consider other circumstances contributing to their mood or behavior, such as a sudden illness or considerable life change.
Symptoms of mental health disorders can vary significantly from person to person and among different diseases. However, the following are typical warning signs that your loved one may need professional treatment:
- Increased use of cigarettes, drugs, or alcohol
- Noticeable changes in sleeping, eating, and hygiene habits
- Difficulty functioning and managing daily responsibilities
- Severe mood swings that are causing relationship problems
- Problems with concentration, memory, and thinking
- Withdrawal from usual people and activities
- Appearing very lethargic or overly aroused
If you feel your loved one is exhibiting these signs, try not to panic. Start by researching information about mental health and available treatment options to have ready for your discussion. The more prepared you are, the better the outcome will be.
Tips for Talking About Mental Health Treatment
Once you have armed yourself with information, the next step is to be sure you choose an appropriate time and place for your discussion. Communicate straightforward but supportively, and look for reactions that indicate you should slow down or back the conversation altogether. Try to use open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer, and be sure to be an active listener.
Consider these tips for conversation starters and keeping the dialog going:
- I’ve been worried about you. Can we talk about what is going on? If not, are you comfortable talking with someone else?
- I care about you and want to help and support you.
- It seems like you are having a hard time. How can I help you get help?
- I am concerned about your safety. Will you let me help you?
- Who or what has helped you deal with similar issues in the past?
- Do you know others who have experienced similar issues that you can talk to?
- Let’s look over this information about mental health treatment together.
Sometimes it is helpful to make comparisons to physical illness for reference. For example, if they twisted their ankle, you might say they would elevate and ice it to make it better, but they would seek more care if they broke it. Similarly, individuals experiencing significant mental health symptoms should receive the proper level of care.
Ultimately, the best you can do for a loved one with a mental health disorder is provide continuous support and reassurance that you want to do all you can to help them recover.
Discover the Benefits of Family Therapy for Mental Health Treatment at Harmony Hills
Through the family therapy program at Harmony Hills, you will learn to identify and build upon the strengths of individual family members and the family as a whole. We provide clients and their families a safe, supportive environment to explore and come to terms with mental health impacts on all of those involved. Call 855.494.0357 to discover the many benefits of family therapy.
