HEALTH

Although it may be hard to tell if someone is struggling with their mental health, it doesn't have to be hard to reach out. During the cold winter months (especially after the holidays), it's easy to fall into a slump. When hot chocolate and ice skating isn't enough to help your friend, here are four ways to check in on their mental health. Bc we *all* could use a friend who reaches out.

@samjayne_design

Ask questions without judgment

Instead of making assumptions about someone's situation, try asking neutral and noninvasive questions. Making sure the person is comfortable sharing is the number one way to help.

Example: "How are you managing the routine of school after the break?"

@ladybluebottle

Offer open support

It's important when someone is talking to listen fully and be present in the conversation, particularly when discussing their struggles. It's helpful to understand what they're saying by not interrupting—focus less on what you want to say and more on what they are saying at the moment. 

Example: "I'm here if you ever need to talk about anything."

Express gratitude for them

On a hard day, everyone loves to feel appreciated. It's easy to find something that feels wrong about ourselves, but sometimes a friend who sees the good in us can help. Telling a friend a specific part about them or their general friendship that you appreciate can make them feel good.

Example: "I appreciate whenever I have a problem that you always offer empathy."

@feelgoodstudio_

Reach out while setting boundaries

If you reach out over text and they don't reply immediately, don't text over and over again. Give the person space and time to understand how they're feeling and collect their thoughts before responding. Of course, set boundaries for yourself, too. If you aren't feeling great, don't put pressure on yourself to help others.

Example: "Don't feel the need to respond immediately, but I just wanted to check in to see how you're doing."

If you're looking for more mental health-related posts, check these out:
🌷 How to start bullet journaling for a therapeutic getaway
🌷 Brain fog: What is it and what can you do about it?
🌷 How to ditch diet culture and accept your body

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Slider image: @ladybluebottle

by Kelly Schwint | 2/27/2022