The COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of slowing down in early 2021 and it’s likely we’ll be fighting it throughout the rest of this year. Mental health has taken a hard hit for millions, with anxiety and depression on the rise. We’re isolated and scared and that’s a terrible combination for mental health.

You don’t have to be a mental healthcare professional to help someone in the midst of a mental health crisis. If you have a friend or loved one who’s having a particularly difficult time, you can help them by discussing the situation—you don’t have to stage a complex intervention.

The following are tips for reaching out to those in a mental health crisis.

  1. Plan a conversation. You’ll need to give thought to choosing a time that works for you and your loved one. It’s important you pick a time where you can communicate without interruptions. Avoid catching the individual off guard by off-handedly broaching a sensitive topic. Instead, ask if there’s a good time you can talk with them.
  2. Make sure the thrust of your discussion communicates care and concern.
  3. Only offer the help you know you’ll deliver, but be specific. Don’t fall back on ‘If there’s anything I can do, let me know”—be as specific as you can. For example, you might offer help with running errands or shopping. Offer help that the individual needs.
  4. Have the name and contact information of mental health professionals available. If your loved one asks for help, be able to offer some direction.
  5. Be prepared to listen. Sometimes people have a lot to talk about. You don’t have to offer suggestions or advice. You don’t have to offer them solutions. Sometimes, it’s best not to slip into problem-solving mode. Simply being physically and emotionally present and available is often a tremendous comfort.
  6. Be prepared for a wide array of emotions. People may feel ashamed of their situation and reactive with defensiveness. After all, there’s still a stigma about mental health and mental illness.
  7. Be patient. People in crisis may take time to accept your offer of help, and they may not accept it at all. Be prepared in case they take you up on your offer of assistance later on.

Damaris Aragon, ARNP, BC provides a full spectrum of mental health care to people in Spokane, Washington, and surrounding areas. She focuses on providing personalized, compassionate care that adheres to current evidence-based standards. Reach out to Damaris through her contact page or calling 509-342-6592.