How to Express Concern About Someone’s Mental Health and When to Shut Up About It

Depresh Mode with John Moe

It’s tricky. That’s what we found when we set out to answer a question we get a lot: “How do I approach a loved one who I’m worried about in terms of mental health?” Obviously, you want to let them know you care but you want to express the depth of your concern. You don’t want to scare them away and make them less likely to seek help. So where’s the line?

According to Quanah Walker, of MakeItOK.org and Director of Behavioral Health at HealthPartners, it starts with knowing the person you’re talking to and knowing yourself. It’s not so much a matter of picking the right words as it is gaining an understanding of your friend.

Megan Auster-Rosen, a licensed psychotherapist in Los Angeles, says it’s important also to know your limitations and respects someone’s boundaries. Don’t go busting in to solve all their problems. Maybe just keep your mouth shut once in a while and learn how to listen a bit more. Depresh Mode burnout episode - https://maximumfun.org/episodes/depresh-mode/if-youre-miserable-at-work-maybe-its-not-your-fault/

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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255, 1-800-273-TALK

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