Society in which we live in, has different perceptions for mental health issues, and encouraging your loved one, who is actually facing a tough time in life could be a real challenge. If there are visible symptoms like anger outburst, behavioral changes, anxiety, frequent changes in mood, etc. these can be considered appropriate signs that one needs professional help.
Here are some tips which will help you to encourage your loved ones to start meeting a counselor or psychologist:-
Approaching: Before approaching them, one needs to understand their situation first, and be completely aware of what they are going through. The conversation should always be polite, mild, subtle and done in a comfortable environment. During the conversation, one needs to be a good listener and listen them patiently without being judgmental or interrupting them. One should be empathetic and not show sympathy. Try to have a heart to heart talk and let them share their thoughts with you. Make sure when you talk, the environment is relaxing for both of you.
Communicating to them that it is normal: When we talk about mental health issues and counseling, there is still a lot of stigmas attached to it. People often fear being judged negatively which acts as a barrier for them in opening up to others when needed. This situation could be managed when it is communicated that its really OK to seek help and approach to a psychologist or a counselor. Ensuring that the conversation is light and comfortable actually help in communicating normalcy.
Be prepared:- When we talk about such problems one should be mentally prepared that the concerned person will often get upset, and try to be more defensive when such conversation is started. This is completely normal to happen and is even get irritated as well. The concerned person could also get little angry and irritated. Give constant efforts in talking to them and things will get improved gradually.
Clarifying their concerns : Often the concerned person would have his genuine concerns like confidentiality and remain reluctant to visit any counselor or psychologist due to these concerns. Address their concerns and ensure them that it is normal and effective way to manage such problems. Educate them with appropriate knowledge, identify and refer them to a professional counselor and even try to fix an appointment for them. You may also offer to accompany them to counselor if needed.
