What to do when someone tells you they had a mental breakdown?
Listen to them without judgment and make sure they know they're not alone. It's also important to let your loved one lead the conversation so you're able to talk about topics they feel comfortable discussing. "Follow and support rather than lead and advise," explains Sue.
What to do when someone says they are having a mental breakdown?
If someone close to you is having a mental breakdown, one of the best things you can do is be present for them and listen to their needs. And making it clear that you are there to offer support without passing judgment can also be very helpful.
People experiencing a nervous breakdown may dissociate or have suicidal thoughts. Unable to perform the activities of everyday life, they usually require treatment from a mental health professional. A nervous breakdown may last for days, weeks, months—even years.
feel isolated — disinterested in the company of family and friends, or withdrawing from usual daily activities. feel overwhelmed — unable to concentrate or make decisions. be moody — feeling low or depression; feeling burnt out; emotional outbursts of uncontrollable anger, fear, helplessness or crying.
One of the best things you can do when someone is really struggling is to acknowledge and validate their struggle. Saying things like, “I see that you're really having a hard time and I'm here for you when you need me” can let the person know that you see their pain and want to be there for them.
What to do when someone says their mental health is bad?
Reminding your friend or family member that help is available and that mental health problems can be treated. Asking questions, listening to ideas, and being responsive when the topic of mental health problems come up. Reassuring your friend or family member that you care about them.
With the right treatment, you, or your loved one, can recover and begin to heal. If you want to learn more about Futures' Mental Health program and how it can help you or a loved one contact us today. Reach out confidentially either online or call us at 866-804-2098.
Typically, a psychotic break indicates the first onset of psychotic symptoms for a person or the sudden onset of psychotic symptoms after a period of remission. Symptoms may include delusional thoughts and beliefs, auditory and visual hallucinations, and paranoia.
A good way to avoid giving advice is to just ask questions. Supportive silence (please add in a few “uh-huhs” and “mmm-hmms,” for the love of God) is your best friend, but if you do feel the need to say anything, make it a question. “What is it that worries you most?” works.
What to say to someone who says they are struggling with their mental health?
Let them know their feelings are valid
No matter what they are struggling with, their experiences are valid and it can be helpful to remind your friend of this. You could say something like 'its okay to feel like that' or, 'what you're going through sounds really tough'.
How to support someone going through a mentally tough time answers?
How to be a good friend to someone who is struggling
Validate what they're saying. People want to feel heard, especially when they are struggling with difficult emotions or experiences that might make them feel very alone. ...
When the stress becomes unbearable, it can lead to a nervous breakdown. Studies have shown that stress affects both your mind and your body. Long-term stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, which can affect your memory and lead to difficulty concentrating.
While a nervous breakdown is temporary, it is serious and should be treated as a mental health crisis. An evaluation by a psychiatrist or other mental health professional can help determine if there is an underlying mental illness contributing to the breakdown that needs to be diagnosed and treated.
How long does it take to feel normal after a mental breakdown?
How long a nervous breakdown will last depends on many factors. Some people may have a minor crisis that lasts for an afternoon, while someone else may experience a more severe breakdown that leaves them dysfunctional for weeks.