A good support system is crucial in the journey towards recovery from mental illness, says Mental Illness Awareness & Support Association (Miasa) Malaysia founder and president Anita Abu Bakar.
“As a bystander, there is much that we can do to help a family member, friend or colleague who is going through mental health issues,” she says.
Here, she shares some steps that we can take:
Don’t be quick to judge, minimise someone’s pain or struggle, or provide pep talks or solutions such as "Don’t be depressed” and "You should look on the bright side”. These are unhelpful to someone suffering from depression.
Communicate your concerns and fears by asking simple, direct questions. For example; “I’m worried about you”, “I don’t really know how to help”, “What do you need?” or “How can I be of help?"
Show concern by saying things like “What you’re going through is valid”, “You have a lot on your plate”, or “I see something is bothering you. Can I be of help?”
These are helpful statements when someone is sharing and opening up about their mental health concerns. Remember that they’re not looking for you to solve their problems. They are looking for a place where they feel heard.
Read up, attend talks and peruse research on mental illness. When you have the knowledge, it’s easier to reach out.
Don’t ostracise, but rather, interact with people who are struggling with mental health issues.
It’s important to build a future generation that is proactive, compassionate and empathic, and free from stigma and discrimination.
