According to NAMI, 1,389,000 adults in New Jersey are living with a mental health condition. If someone in your friends and family is struggling with their mental health, they are not alone.
To help them overcome the struggle, you can be present with them, empathize with them, or take them to the therapist near you in New Jersey for professional treatment.
How to Help a Family Member With a Mental Health Issue
Before we get into how to support someone, it helps to understand what people who are dealing with mental pressure actually want from other people.
People dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions don't really want someone to advise them immediately. What they want is to feel understood as the first step.
Resist the urge to tell someone "you shouldn't think that way" or advise them on what they should do. Ask what they need from you.
People in distress or depression often feel that outsiders are trying to "fix" them. It actually makes them shut down even more. What works better is asking open questions.
Here’s what you can say to them:
"I've noticed you seem a little off lately. I'm not going anywhere."
"You don't have to explain anything. I just wanted to check in."
"What would feel helpful right now? I can listen, or we can just hang out. Whatever you need."
None of these force the conversation. They open a door without pushing the person through it.
Signs That Immediate Help Is Needed
There's a big difference between someone who is going through a rough patch and someone who is in immediate mental health crisis.
Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline of New Jersey) in case the person is:
Expressing thoughts of ending their life
Is making statements that feel final
Is not able to take care of themselves at a basic level
Is completely disconnected from reality
Advice for Family Members on How to Have the First Conversation
If this is the first time you're approaching a loved one about their mental health, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Avoid initiating the conversation when either of you is rushed, hungry, tired, or in a public setting.
Lead with what you've noticed.
Don't push them for a response.
Follow up or revisit the conversation when necessary.
When You're Looking for Professional Mental Health Assistance in New Jersey
Connecting someone with professional care is one of the most meaningful things you can do for your loved one.
New Jersey's mental health system includes publicly funded community mental health centers across every county. The New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services maintains a statewide directory where you can access mental health support.
You can help them get connected with mental health experts at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates if they are feeling overwhelmed. Our online mental healthcare services are available in New Jersey and nearby areas, so your loved one can get access to professional treatment without any hassle.
Providing Consistent Support to Someone With a Mental Health Condition
If you have a family member with a mental health issue, short-term support is very different from long-term involvement. The longer you're in this role, the more you need to pay attention to your own limits.
Limits might look like:
Deciding you won't answer crisis calls after a certain hour.
Stepping back from trying to manage their treatment and instead asking how you can support the process.
Setting aside time every once in a while for yourself.
Michigan State University Extension notes that caregivers who proactively set limits and accept help are significantly more effective over time than those who try to carry everything.
How to Get Someone to Make a Mental Health Appointment
The most reliable way to get a loved one to book a mental health appointment is to find out what's holding them back.
Before giving any advice, ask them questions like "What feels hardest about the idea of talking to someone?"
Also, people sometimes need to try a few providers, and a few treatments, before something clicks.
Make the First Step Easy for Them
Instead of just advising them to go to the therapist, you can make arrangements for them.
Narrow the search to two or three providers who take their insurance
Sit next to them while they call
Offer a ride, or set up a telehealth session for them in New Jersey
Pick a time that matches their routine
These may seem simple to you, but they can make a big difference to someone who is already struggling.
How to Look After Yourself While You Care For Someone Else
Supporting someone through a mental health struggle is emotionally demanding work. It affects your sleep, your relationships, and your own mental clarity.
So, along with caring for the affected person, you should also look after yourself. Some ways to keep yourself mentally and emotionally strong are:
Talking to your own support network about your emotions and feelings
Seeing a therapist yourself
Staying connected to your own life and friendships
Knowing when to refer to a professional and letting go of the outcome
Get Complete Mental Health Support in New Jersey Through BNBA
If a friend or family member is struggling with a mental health condition, Boston Neurobehavioral Associates can connect them with professional mental health support. Our team of psychiatrists and experts can help residents of New Jersey get treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, family stress, and other mental health issues.
FAQs
How Do I Know if My Loved One Needs a Crisis Intervention Rather Than Routine Therapy?
If they express thoughts of self-harm or struggle to manage daily activities, call or text 988 or seek help from a mental health professional.
What if the Person Refuses Help?
If the person refuses all help and the situation is getting worse, you should keep your relationship intact with them and consult with a mental health professional yourself.