Being a support person can be challenging in many ways. It can be difficult to balance caring for a loved one and remembering to look after yourself. Being a support person in someone’s life can also be very rewarding. We feel their pain, but we can feel their happiness, their peace.

Here are five ways you can help someone who is struggling:

Educate Yourself:

One of the best ways to help someone is to learn more about what they are experiencing. Whether through direct communication or independent research and learning, education helps to erase stigma and may give strategies to help support your loved one.

Listen:

Simple, yet especially important. Many people who are struggling just want someone to hear them out. Instead of offering unsolicited advice, just listen. Having someone who listens is incredibly helpful when someone is struggling. A listening ear helps to break down the walls of isolation that your loved one may feel trapped in.

Sometimes our loved ones have difficulty talking about their feelings. In this case, we need to keep letting that person know that we care about them, and that we are willing to listen at any time.

Be Patient:

Mental health struggles can feel lonely and confusing. People may experience many different thoughts and feelings. This can be stressful for a support person. Just remember that what your loved one is experiencing is due to the stress that they are under, not a new personality or attitude.

If you are struggling to get through to someone, do not give up. If you keep trying, then you are continuously letting them know that you care about them. Knowing that you care might make all the difference, even if they are having trouble talking or letting you in. Your patience will continue to be rewarded as you stand by someone that you love.

Be Positive:

A struggling person can have a lot of negative thoughts and feelings. Make sure to positively encourage your loved one, even if it seems hollow or ineffective.

Keep reminding that person of their strengths and positive qualities. This encouragement can give someone the strength to keep on fighting.

Take Care of Yourself:

The commitment of caring for a loved one can be painful, stressful, and exhausting. Take the necessary time to look after your own health, whatever that may look like for you. You will be a much better support person when you are remembering to take care of yourself as well as your loved one. Look after yourself because you matter too. And because your loved one needs you.