It might feel hopeless to watch from the sidelines while a loved one experiences the “feels.” You might experience confusion, annoyance, and exhaustion. Attempts to “assist” your loved one could seem to be met with rejection or, worse yet, complete disregard.
You could even start to feel somewhat accountable for their mood swings. It’s not just you. Mood swings are an alienating condition that may destroy relationships and make loved ones feel powerless and scared.
Your loved one may be depressed, discouraged, disheartened, or down, but they may also be angry all the time. It’s typical to have irrational outbursts and place blame. Depression frequently results in social disengagement and a lack of enjoyment or interest. Those who are moody suddenly lose interest in experiencing joy. Below are some of the ways you may be able to assist your loved one get over a rough patch.
Find Out What They Are Dealing With
Uncertain of what depression or anxiety are or how to support a friend who is experiencing either condition? Finding out more about your friend’s depression, anxiety, or other issues is an excellent first step in providing support. This will enable you to comprehend their feelings and the situation better.
It can be challenging to distinguish between life’s normal ups and downs and mental health issues like emotional stress. Anyone dealing with mental health issues could feel humiliated and concerned about their loved one’s reactions if they discuss it.
Depression and other mental health symptoms might differ from person to person. However, you may want to watch out for changes in a person’s behavior while going through a difficult period. One way you can help them get rid of depressive symptoms is helping them get the proper medication. It could be prescription medication or contemporary alternatives such as CBD vape pen.
Be Friendly, Receptive, and Attentive
Knowing what to say to a worried or sad person can be challenging. Feel free to ask your friend how they are if they feel like talking. Try to pick a time and location where you and your loved one will feel calm and at ease and where there will be some privacy when you want to discuss this sensitive situation.
If they don’t want to talk, don’t force them, but if they do, be there for them. Even if you don’t have a response or a solution, simply offering to listen may be incredibly beneficial. Your loved ones could find it challenging to accept your assistance. Stay in touch with them and let them know you care about them and are available to support them if they need it.
Don’t Discount Their Emotions.
If an individual has a mental health challenge, they can’t just “snap out of it,” “cheer up,” or “forget about it.” Don’t tell them their sentiments are odd or unjustified. Acknowledge that it must be hard to deal with what is happening.
Ask the person you’re trying to help for advice if you’re unsure how to help them. You might also present them with a few alternatives and let them select the one that best suits them. For instance, you may offer to listen while they speak their minds or hang out without having a real conversation.
Make an effort to show them you care about them and are interested in knowing more about them.
Assist Them in Finding Help
Your loved one might not be aware of the choices for professional help, or they might not know how to receive support. It might be intimidating to see a health professional even when they are aware of their choices for help.
In support of your friend, you can suggest they speak to a health professional or a person they can trust. Ask them if they’d like you to join them or if they’d like you to make the appointment if it’s with a professional.
A GP can help them set up a mental health treatment plan (if necessary). In other words, your loved one will be sent to a psychologist or other expert. Ask for their consent before speaking to a trusted professional on their behalf if they can’t reach out for assistance independently. If they decline and you’re still really worried, you can think about speaking with the one you trust on their behalf.
Support Them and Respond To Emergencies As Needed
You might find your loved one unwilling to leave their room on a bad day. If they make a statement like, “I’m going to cancel my appointment today,” nudge them to keep the appointment. Whether or not your loved one has opted to seek professional assistance, they must be aware of the support you and their other friends and family can provide.
Recognize Their Accomplishments
Recognizing and acknowledging your accomplishments can be difficult when you’re going through a challenging time. Additionally, it is hard to see how far you have come. This is how your loved one feels. You should congratulate your friend when they overcome their fears or improve their well-being. Help them feel proud of themselves.
Final Thoughts
The importance of professional and social support can’t be overstated. We may all need a little assistance from one another, so be sure to check in with your loved ones, especially if they’ve displayed any indications of moodiness. Motivate your friends and family to get treatment for their distress.
