Broaching the topic of mental wellbeing with your loved ones

First, while we may have our suspicions that someone is not well, it is important that we come from a position of seeking to understand the person first. Casting judgement early and only on account of mere suspicion may only drive a wedge in the relationship and strain it further, rather than convey closeness.

Being empathetic to their difficulties, being respectful of their space and needs, and relaying your genuine thoughts from a position of concern will inevitably unearth some of the struggles of the person you care about. This then forms a starting point to discuss further options to get help.

You may feel strongly that the individual may require a specialist consultation at the onset, but he is only comfortable seeing a counsellor for now.

Instead of expressing disdain, you could facilitate the process for him to seek help that he prefers. As long as he maintains on a road to recovery, this remains a positive step that should be supported.

If you’ve read an article on mental health in the local news and find it useful to share to a colleague who appears to be struggling, it may be a good starting point for discussion. As a result of that initial conversation about mental wellness, he may find it easier to talk about his emotions or better still, seek help on account of it.