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5. Avoid giving advice and focus on suggestions
While it might seem helpful to offer advice based on your own personal experiences, if you’re not a mental health professional it’s important to be mindful that it may not be appropriate to give advice.
We all process our thoughts, feelings and emotions in our own unique ways, so try to focus on suggesting options for support instead. I.e. “Are you aware of this charity (e.g. Mind) who offer a variety of mental health support – what do you think about taking a look at their website/giving them a call?” or “Have you considered talking to a professional about how you’re feeling?”
This gently eases the conversation into exploring options, and you’re showing the individual that they don’t have to remain feeling stuck, fearful or overwhelmed, and they can access various support that’s available.
With this in mind, try to remain focused on their needs as opposed to talking about your own stories. There is of course a time and a place for sharing personal experiences, and it’s an act of kindness to choose to share your own vulnerability – just be mindful to come back to their story to ensure they feel heard, and the focus remains on their needs.
