How do I help someone who is suffering with their mental health?

Firstly, don’t shy away. As Brits we are notorious for avoiding awkward conversations, getting too private, being embarrassed…. we don’t even talk salaries at work so talk mental health? No thank you.

But things have to change. 1 in 4 of us will suffer from mental health. The biggest thing you can do? Talk. Learn. Listen.

So what to do when you see someone you think might be suffering? Approach them, yes I know it might be awkward if this is new to you. But feeling awkward is the sacrifice you make and trust me, you’ll get over it.

Ask them. If they reply with the automatic ‘I’m fine.’ Ask them again, ‘How are you really?’ Choose a good time to ask, not between meetings but a time when you can both feel comfortable. And then LISTEN. And I mean really listen. When I was training as a coach this was the most important skill I learned. At school we spend years learning to read and write but except for a few GCSE French lessons, when do we ever learn to listen? But that’s another blog,

Listening without judgment, without offering advice, and importantly, get comfortable with silence.

Give support. You are not a mental health expert and nobody expects you to be, but treating someone with respect and dignity is key. Have realistic expectations of recovery and what that looks like. Know that most people recover from mental illness and need to be treated with kindness and compassion; understand their fears are real to them.

Help them get help, help find professionals or networks that are equipped to help. If in doubt suggest their GP.

Compassion, support, and patience get yourself as informed as possible and regularly check in with them. Your time, company, and compassion are the ultimate gifts you can give. By reading this you have taken the first step.