Initiating a conversation
You may come across sometimes colleagues in
the workplace or in the family or in the street who you think may have a problem. All you
can do is go and talk to that person. Look them in the face, ask them, "Can I help? Have
you got something that you want to talk about?" Provide them with a safe space. Don't push
them. Give them the space to come back to you with whatever it is they want to talk
about and prove that you've understood by, if need be, repeating it back. "So you're
telling me, then, that you're really worried about this. Is what you're saying about this?"
Use silence if need be. Once the person has got your confidence and he trusts you, then
they will open up. And if the problem's too big for you, then suggest that they seek help
from either their GP, NHS, or even just ring the Samaritans. It will cost them nothing.
It will only take a couple of minutes of their life and it might just provide the answer
Supporting Someone with Mental Health Concerns
Recognising and Approaching
Identifying someone who may need help:
Sometimes you may notice colleagues at work, family members, or people in your community who seem to be struggling.
Approaching the Conversation
Tips for initiating a supportive conversation:
- Approach them directly and respectfully.
- Ask if they're okay and if there's something they want to talk about.
- Provide a safe and non-judgmental space for them to open up.
- Avoid pushing them to talk before they're ready.
- Use reflective listening to show understanding: repeat back what they've said to confirm.
- Be comfortable with silence if they need time to gather their thoughts.
Offering Support and Guidance
Helping them find the right support:
- If the problem seems overwhelming, suggest they seek help from their GP, NHS services, or organisations like the Samaritans.
- Emphasise that seeking help is free, confidential, and could provide the answers they need.