You may have a friend, family member or veterinary colleague suffering from mental health issues.
But knowing what to say to offer help and support can be a challenge.
You don’t want to say the wrong thing or something that may make them feel even worse. So what are some things you can say?
Rosie Overfield, registered counsellor and AVA ‘Mental Health First Aid’ instructor offers some suggestions about what not to say and more importantly, what you can say to support those around you.
What NOT to say:
1. Cheer up
2. You need to snap out of this
3. There’s always someone else worse off
4. No one ever said life was easy
5. Stop feeling sorry for yourself.
6. Believe me, I know how you feel. I was depressed once for several days.
7. Haven’t you grown tired of all this “me, me, me” stuff yet?
8. Have you tried herbal tea?
9. You just need to get out more
10. Everyone feels a little OCD at some point
What TO say:
1. I’m here for you
2. You’re not alone in this
3. This must be very hard for you
4. You are not crazy
5. I can’t really understand what you are feeling, but I can offer my support
6. What’s been going on for you?
7. What can I do?
8. How would you like to be supported?
9. Life doesn’t have to stay this way
10. Have you spoken to anyone else about how you are feeling?
For more resources visit the Vetanswers Resources Page: Are you ok? Don’t let the silence win