How Can I Help you?

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How can I help you?

These five simple words have the power to provide much-needed support when someone opens up about their mental health struggles.

Many people are advocates for mental health.

They hold a deep respect for this field and genuinely appreciate its importance.

However, they may find themselves stuck or scared when someone confides in them about their struggles with a mental health condition.

They might not know how to respond the ‘right’ way.

Imagine this scenario: a friend or colleague at work approaches you and opens up about a tough phase they've been going through, such as experiencing depressive moods, low self-esteem, or thoughts of self-harm.

You listen attentively, but you hesitate to respond because you're not a mental health expert, and you're unsure of what to say or do.

If you've ever found yourself in this situation, please don't ignore them or ghost them.

And dont worry, you don't need to be a mental health expert to offer the ‘right’ support in this specific moment.

You can simply ask them, 'How can I help you?'

It's essential to recognize that these individuals reached out to you because they saw comfort and understanding in you.

Sometimes, having a safe space to share their feelings and have a conversation can make a huge difference.

You don't have to take on the role of a therapist or try to 'solve' their problems.

Maybe all they wanted was to share their pain with another human being who appeared open and understanding – and that person is you.

Take home message: 

Make sure to remind them that there are professionals out there who can help them cope with the challenges they're facing and recommend a few ones you know.

But it can all start with a simple question: 'How can I help you?'

If you find yourself struggling to process a traumatic event or any unpleasant feelings, don't hesitate to reach out and send me a message or an email on kindmindbydana@gmail.com ðŸ˜Š

Yours truly,

Dana Berri

Kindness is not just a virtue, it's a way of life. 

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