Talking about mental health should be the norm. Opening up about feelings can be tremendously beneficial for a person’s well-being. However, being vulnerable about thoughts and feelings can be daunting. How can we position ourselves to truly be there for those we care about? How can we help others overcome the stigma and fear of talking honestly about mental health?
There are several simple things we can do to foster healthy conversations with others who may be silently suffering:
Be Vulnerable Yourself:
Leading by example and sharing your own experiences can lead to a healthy exchange and a deepening of the relationship.
Take Time:
Conversations about mental health often require more than a few minutes. Carve out meaningful time to spend together, such as taking a walk, a scenic drive, or planning a 30-minute phone call.
Listen:
Leave space for the person you are connecting with to express themselves freely. Do not interrupt or over-manage the conversation.
Mind Your Reactions:
Remember that fear of others’ judgments and reactions has likely caused hesitancy to share. Staying calm and reassuring them that their feelings are normal can go a long way toward making others feel comfortable sharing.
As a mental health professional, I have the opportunity to witness the power of vulnerability daily. A person being able to vulnerably share is a significant step towards overcoming fear of judgment and can lead to an immediate increase in confidence and self-love. Let’s work together, as a community, to break down the barriers of mental health stigma.
If you or anyone you care about would benefit from a safe space to share, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional. Qualified listeners are available to help. To learn more, go to Ellie Mental Health.
By: Alex Johnson, LCSW, Clinic Director, Ellie Mental Health, Provo UT
