Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. If you are close to someone with a mental health condition, you're probably wondering how to best help them. Maintaining a good relationship with them is one way. But this may feel tough at times, especially when the condition makes it harder for the person to manage their emotions and behaviors. And what helps the most may depend on what mental health condition they have. Here are some things that you can do to help keep your relationship healthy. Understanding the condition can help you strengthen your relationship. It can help you let go of any blame or false beliefs you might have about the condition. Try not to focus too much on the condition. Instead, focus on the things you enjoy about the person. Ask the person how you can be most helpful. If you can, talk to their doctor or counselor about how you can help. Try not to assume you know what the person needs. Do something you both enjoy. You could do things like watch a movie, play a game, or spend time outdoors. Make sure you both have others you can talk to and lean on. This could be supportive family, close friends, a faith leader, or a mental health support group. Taking good care of your own health will also help you support the person with a mental health condition. Caring for your physical and emotional health can help. Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can: Consider saving these numbers in your phone. Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online. Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Maintaining a Healthy Relationship With Someone Who Has a Mental Health Condition
Overview
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardMaintaining a Healthy Relationship With Someone Who Has a Mental Health Condition
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.