Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
So how do we communicate with someone who could be struggling?
I know that, personally, when I was depressed, I isolated
and I wasn't very good at communicating; so the most important part
is to be able to build rapport. What we don't say
is "snap out of it". What we don't say
is "you've been miserable too long." What we don't say
is "there's many people worse off than you." What we do say
is "I care for you." What we do say
is "How can I help?", "What can I do that could assist you?"
If you're not able to come up with something,
you may suggest "Can I help you make an appointment for the doctor?"
"Can I help you find a mental health savvy
GP?" "Can I go on a regular walk with you?"
They're the things that can make the biggest difference.
It's about building rapport,
asking questions to understand the situation,
and encouraging them to take action.