The Importance Of Mental Health In Relationships
Whether it’s a romantic relationship, work relationship, friendship or even in relation to family members, mental health is really important. Mental health and relationships are very much correlated. When someone you care about is having a difficult time with their mental health it can very much affect your relationship with them. As well as even your own mental health.
Of course, when you love and care about someone you cannot or should not abandon them during their time of need. Just like with physical health problems, people suffering from mental health problems often require support from the people around them. This can be really beneficial for them and could potentially also help speed up their recovery time.
So, if you are supporting a loved one that is experiencing mental health issues here are some tips that can help you with that.
Patience
When it comes to mental health and relationships, I think patience is truly key. It is very easy to lose your patience with someone when they are mentally struggling. And that isn’t your fault of course, it’s a human reaction. But try to remember that just because their wounds are not visible to you doesn’t mean that they don’t exist. Those things that annoy you or frustrate you are very likely due to symptoms of their illness.
If they had broken their leg, you wouldn’t expect them to be able to run a race. In the same way, when someone is struggling with their mental health, don’t expect them to be able to function as though they are fine. That is just not possible for them.
Try to keep this in mind and be more patient when they need your help or support. I’m sure they will appreciate it very much. I know from experience that it makes a huge difference when someone cuts you some slack when you’re struggling and is patient with you.
Create Your Own Boundaries
Now, of course it’s important to be patient with those that are struggling. But also remember to set boundaries because those are very necessary. They may not realise that they are stretching you too thin. And you may end up feeling resent or like you’re being taken advantage of if you haven’t set any boundaries. So remember to also protect yourself and your mental health.
Yes, someone you love is struggling and you want to be there for them 24/7. But we’re only human and can only do so much. If you feel like it’s getting too difficult to support them, please reach out to professionals that can help to care for the person struggling. And do seek therapy for yourself as well because that will really help you to learn how to set and maintain boundaries. Plus, you’ll have a safe space where you can address your own needs.
Active Listening Instead Of Advice
A lot of times when someone is struggling, they don’t want or need your advice. Just listening to them and giving them a shoulder to lean on can help them feel validated and will make a big difference for their mental health. It will remind them that they are not alone and they have someone that loves and cares about them enough to listen.
Respect Their Boundaries
When we see someone we love and care about hurting or struggling our instinct is to do whatever we can to help them. However, sometimes it’s much more complicated then we realise. And when we force ourselves into the situation we can do more harm then good. That’s why it’s important to respect their boundaries and listen when they ask for space, say no or take time for themselves. This can get a little complicated when you’re involved in a romantic relationship and I think couples counselling would be great to help set realistic and doable boundaries with a professional present.
Take Breaks When Necessary
As humans, we tend to throw ourselves into what we are preoccupied with. However, it’s incredibly difficult to care for someone that is struggling with mental health problems or a mental health illness. Remember to prioritise yourself sometimes as well. It’s important to make sure you’re taking breaks, practicing self-care, doing things you enjoy and most importantly speaking with a professional if your mental health is also being affected.
Final Thoughts
I hope these tips were helpful and informative. And that you now better understand how to support someone you love that may be struggling with mental health problems or a mental illness. If you have any helpful tips of your own, please feel free to leave them in the comments section.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you love are experiencing mental health problems please talk to a professional or someone you trust. Please seek help if you feel that it is necessary. There is absolutely nothing wrong with needing help.
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