One in 5 Americans have a mental health challenge every year. You probably know someone who has a condition like depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or something else. Mental health conditions include changes in your thinking, mood, behavior, or feelings. Causes can include stress, traumatic events, genetics, and biochemistry. No one is to blame for mental illness.

If one of your friends or family members shows signs of a possible mental health issue, find time to talk to them about it. It’s key to do this as soon as you can, since mental illnesses may get worse without treatment. Allot at least 30 minutes and get rid of distractions. Start off with supportive questions like: “I see you’re having a hard time, can I help you?” or “I care about you. Can we talk?”

If your loved one is having a tough time or dealing with a mental health issue, there are many ways to support them. A few tips in doing so include:
 

• Don’t compare their situation to others.
• Ask (instead of assume) how you can help.
• Offer to keep them company (like going with them to appointments).
• Hone your active listening skills. Tune in 100% to what the person is saying.
• Learn the person’s specific signs that show they may need more help.
   

Before you meet with your loved one, take a few minutes to review available resources. Many websites, like those listed below, offer background information, coverage of specific mental illness topics, scripts for conversations, links to chats with trained counselors, and more. 

• Nami.org: National Alliance on Mental Illness
• Samhsa.gov: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Mhanational.org: Mental Health America

A screening can help clarify a health situation. Mental illnesses can be harder to diagnose than physical illnesses. A health care provider can do a screening or make a referral to a counselor or psychiatrist. Online screeners also can help pinpoint symptoms. Once you have more information about the symptoms – and how they connect to specific illnesses – you can help advocate for your own or your loved one’s treatment.

Mental illnesses can be managed well through treatment. Treatment options depend on the type of illness and how severe it is. There are things you or your loved one can do individually, like lifestyle changes and attending support groups. There are other treatments that need professional support, like medication and therapy. It may help to talk with a family member or friend to discuss the best treatment route for you or them.

A mental health crisis is when there is risk of a person hurting themselves or others. A crisis is also when a person can’t care for themselves and function in their community. During a crisis, everyone may be confused and emotional. Prepare for this possible situation with your loved one ahead of time by reading about crisis response and possible steps to take.

Mental health conditions have a stigma that leads to discrimination. Due to this, people hide their mental health conditions and don’t seek treatment. Negative perceptions lead to isolation, labeling, and lowered self-esteem. Mental health and physical health conditions are similar. When people get the flu, they need treatment from medical professionals. When people are diagnosed with anxiety, they also need proper treatment.

If you notice changes in your child, especially if they have recently gone through a difficult or traumatic situation, seek help from their school counselor or a health care provider. Talk to your child about their feelings and listen carefully to their answers. Be sure to talk to them when they feel safe and don’t minimize their feelings. Speak at their developmental level to make sure they understand.

Active duty military members may get posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or traumatic brain injury due to their work. Unlike in the past, the military now recognizes that it’s better to disclose and treat mental health conditions than to not disclose and not treat them. If you know a military warrior or veteran who’s struggling with their mental health, talk to them and help them find the resources they need.

First responders and health care professionals have unique stressors and may not realize when they are having mental health struggles. It’s important to check in with them often to monitor increases in crankiness, anger, isolation, sleep changes, physical issues, or depression. Accessing available resources can help to address conditions to ensure their health and wellness.

Monitor your personal mental well-being. Notice symptoms and seek treatment to improve the quality of your life. Rely on resources to help yourself. Consider sharing your journey with your friends and family. Wait until you are well and ready. You don’t have to share with everyone. Sharing your journey may help lower your self-stigma and allow you to support others in their mental health struggles.

Whether you’re supporting someone else in their mental health journey, managing your own condition, or both, you need to prioritize self-care. Set boundaries and manage expectations. Make healthy choices. If you have a mental health condition, follow your treatment plan. Talk to your loved ones. Join a support group. Be aware of the resources available and use them.