Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. It is important at all life stages.
In a sense, mental health is like the weather: it is the emotional and psychological climate in which we live. Like the weather, it is affected by systems moving through, sometimes fine, sometimes overcast, sometimes stormy. Mental health, therefore, is our positive interaction with the context and events of our lives. It is affected by our life situation and the amount of support and control we have.
Mental health is about coping with the challenges of life: from bereavement to job stress to relationship problems. Strong support networks and financial security can help a person cope with mental health problems, whereas living in poverty or abuse, with little control over circumstances, places serious strain on someone's mental health. Income, housing, health, education and employment - or the lack of these - are key factors affecting our sense of well-being.
Via the Canadian Mental Health Association national website.
Supporting someone struggling with their mental health
How do I bring it up with others?
Be prepared: Think about the different reactions, positive and negative, that the person might have so you’re prepared. The person will be thinking about their perception of mental illness, you as a person and how the two fit together.
Choose a good time: Choose a time and place when you feel comfortable and ready to talk.
Be ready for lots of questions...or none: The person you are talking might have lots of questions or need further information to help them understand. Or they might feel uncomfortable and try to move the conversation on – if this happens it’s still helpful that the first step has been taken.
An initial reaction might not last: The person might initially react in a way that’s not helpful – maybe changing the subject, using clichés rather than listening. But give them time.
Have some information ready: Sometimes people find it easier to find out more in their own time – why not have one of our leaflets to hand?
Keep it light: We know that sometimes people are afraid to talk about mental health because they feel they don’t know what to say or how to help. So keeping the conversation light will help make you both feel relaxed.
Take up opportunities to talk: If someone asks you about your mental health, don’t shy away, be yourself and answer honestly.
Courage is contagious: Often once mental health is out in the open people want to talk. Don’t be surprised if your honesty encourages other people to talk about their own experiences.
There are a lot of simple ways you can support someone with a mental health problem.
Talk, but listen too: Simply being there will mean a lot.
Keep in touch: Meet up, phone, e-mail, or text.
Don't just talk about mental health: Chat about everyday things as well.
Remind them you care: Small things can make a big difference.
Be patient: Ups and downs can happen.
"But what can I do for them?"
Take the lead: If you know someone has been unwell, don’t be afraid to ask how they are. They might want to talk about it, they might not. But just letting them know they don’t have to avoid the issue with you is helpful.
Avoid clichés: Phrases like ‘Cheer up’, ‘I’m sure it’ll pass’ and ‘Pull yourself together’ won’t help. Try to be open minded and non-judgemental. You won't always understand what's going on for the other person, but lending an ear is the important part.
Think about body language: Try to be relaxed and open. It probably goes without saying that a gaping mouth, regular clock watching or looking uncomfortable won’t go unnoticed.
Ask how you can help: People will want support at different times in different ways, so ask how you can help.
Don’t just talk about mental health: Keep in mind that having a mental health problem is just one part of the person. People don't want to be defined by their mental health problem so keep talking about the things you always talked about. Just spending time with the person lets them know you care and can help you understand what they're going through.
Don’t avoid the issue: If someone comes to you to talk, try not to brush them off. Asking for support can be a hard step to take.
Give them time: Some people might prefer a text or email rather than talking on the phone or face to face. This means they can get back to you when they feel ready. What’s important is that they know you’ll be there when they’re ready to get in touch.
Find out more: If you think you might feel awkward or uncomfortable, you could find out more about mental illness. If you think it would help, you could also find about other help that’s available.
Is there a list of things I should/should not say?
“I can’t imagine what you’re going through.”
“People do get better.”
“Can I drive you to an appointment?”
“How are you feeling today?”
“I love you.”
“We’ve all been there.”
“You’ve got to pull yourself together.”
“Maybe try thinking happier thoughts.”
“Oh man, that sucks.”
DO SAY:
“Thanks for opening up to me.”
“Is there anything I can do to help?”
“How can I help?”
“Thanks for sharing.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. It must be tough.”
“I’m here for you when you need me.”
DON'T SAY:
“It could be worse..”
“Just deal with it.”
“Snap out of it.”
“Everyone feels that way sometimes.”
“You may have brought this on yourself.”
Via “Lets Erase the Stigma”, www.letserasethestigma.com/what-is-mental-health
Student Counselling, Health & Well-being (SCHW)
Student Counselling, Health & Well-being (SCHW) is a student service department at York University. Their team of health care professionals, peer health educators and support staff collaborate to provide a range of health and well-being services that foster academic success, student development and an engaged community. The primary aim of SCHW is to support students in realizing and developing their personal potential and manage the demands of university life.
ELIGIBILITY
You are eligible for Student Counselling, Health & Well-being (SCHW) if you are a York University student who is currently registered and enrolled in courses. Please note If you are currently located out of province, studying abroad or a Continuing Education student, you cannot access counsellinfg services directly from SCHW. Please access counselling support through keepme.SAFE.
Keele Campus
Office Hours: 9am to 4pm, with the last walk in session available at 3pm.
Location: Room N110 Bennett Centre for Student Services, 99 Ian Macdonald Boulevard
Telephone: 416-736-5297
Email: schw@yorku.ca
Glendon Campus
Office Hours: 9am to 4pm, with the last walk in session available at 3pm.
Location: York Hall (YH) B108, Student Success Centre, 2275 Bayview Ave
Telephone: (416) 487-6701
Email: counselling@glendon.yorku.ca