How to support a friend or a relative with their mental health
You may be living your life, making decisions that you think are best for your mental health, but are really based on the outdated and erroneous information.
Stay in regular contact. Pick up the phone, send a text or email to check up on your friend or relative.
Listen to your friend. Be patient and understanding.
Offer to go with them to find some support and advice from professionals. If things like "I hate my life", constantly crop their mind, then it's time to check on a psychiatrist or a therapist.
Encourage them to talk about how they are feeling.
Ask them if there is anything you can do to help them with the tasks, such as shopping, cleaning etc.
Talk to them about how exercise, sleep and eating healthy can help with their mental health.
Help them to develop coping skills such as relaxation or deep breathing. Be there to practice with them.
Do not judge them or be critical to them when talking to them.
Respect their limits and do not put pressure on them to do things.
Make sure to look after yourself and your own well being.