Mental Health Awareness Month
The unexpected COVID-19 pandemic left many Americans feeling uneasy with their mental health. With the world shutting down, people forced to quarantine, and many becoming essential workers, the mental health of Americans were drastically affected. According to the National Institute of Health, nearly a quarter of Americans as of April of 2020 reported significant psychological distress (an estimated four times greater than 2018 statistics). Now, in 2023, many Americans believe that COVID is long behind us. The world has definitely improved in the treatment and research of COVID-19, however individuals at risk are still a target, and several Americans are still taking precautions, deemed, “COVID conscious” on social media platforms such as Tik Tok, Facebook, and Instagram. How do we provide support for these individuals, who may be experiencing elevated levels of depression and other mental illnesses? Perhaps they lost a loved one from COVID-19. Perhaps they have experienced the long-term effects of COVID-19 and now live with a Chronic Illness. During this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Serenity Zone will continue to advocate for individuals managing mental illness and wish to provide tips on how to support your loved ones. Below are some tips.
Validate their feelings: Oftentimes, individuals who have mental health illness feel alone and misunderstood. Using validating language can help your loved one feel supported.
Do not say this: “It could be so much worse!” “Just be happy!” “It’s not a big deal.” “You always make everything a big deal.”
Say this: “This must be hard for you.” “I can see how upset you are.” “It’s okay not to be happy all the time.”
Be Understanding: Individuals who are remaining cautious of COVID-19 may feel uneasy attending social gatherings. This may heighten their anxiety or other mental health concerns. Additionally, individuals with chronic health conditions due to COVID-19 may experience unexpected pains and symptoms. Plans may change and the individual could feel responsible or guilty having to change plans.
Do not say this: “You canceled last time!” “When are you going to start living?” “You’re always in pain!” “You always don’t feel well.” “I spent so much time planning this.”
Say this: “I’ll miss you, but I want you to feel comfortable?” “Would you like to talk about how this event is making you feel?” “How can I make you feel more comfortable?” “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Respect Boundaries: Individuals who are remaining cautious of COVID-19 may set specific boundaries to make themselves feel safe. There can be several reasons for setting boundaries. Perhaps this individual is at risk for serious illness. Perhaps this individual cares for small children or elderly individuals.
Do not say this: “I’m not wearing a mask, we’ll be fine!” “But I’m vaccinated!” “Oh, come on, I don’t have COVID!”
Say this: (If you feel uncomfortable wearing a mask) “I feel uncomfortable wearing a mask, is there something else I can do that would make you feel safe?” “I can test myself before we meet to make you feel more comfortable!”
Encourage them to Seek Help: Chances are, this individual may benefit from speaking with a counselor regarding their experiences and mental health concerns. Since COVID-19, several behavioral health centers offer telehealth services where the individual can speak to a counselor virtually (on video or on telephone). Talking through their experiences with COVID-19 and mental illness may provide support and ease their anxiety.
Do not say this: “You need serious help!”
Say this: “Maybe talking to someone about this may make it easier for you.”
The key to supporting any individual with mental illness is to remain supportive, consistent, and compassionate. Remember to also care for yourself and keep a track of your own emotional wellbeing while being a sense of comfort for someone else!
