How to Support a Loved One Who is Struggling
It can be painful to watch someone you care about struggle with their mental health.
You may feel unsure what to say or afraid of making things worse.
The truth is: your compassion and presence can make a real difference, even when you don’t have all the answers.
Recognize the Signs of Struggle
Rather than labeling behavior as “bad” or “lazy,” view it through a compassionate lens:
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Increased isolation or withdrawal
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Loss of motivation or energy
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Changes in appetite or sleep
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Heightened irritability or sadness
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Difficulty concentrating
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Expressing hopelessness or guilt
Try to remember: these behaviors often reflect distress, not character flaws.
Approach With Curiosity, Not Judgment
When you reach out, use gentle curiosity:
“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed down lately. How are you really doing?”
“I care about you, and I’m wondering how I can best support you right now.”
Avoid advice-giving or trying to “fix” things. People often need to feel safe and heard before they can accept help.
Listen to Understand, Not to Respond
Therapeutic listening involves:
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Staying present and patient
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Allowing pauses and silence
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Reflecting back what you hear (“It sounds like you’ve been feeling really overwhelmed.”)
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Validating emotion (“That makes sense; what you’re feeling is understandable.”)
Validation doesn’t mean you agree—it means you acknowledge their experience.
Encourage Professional Help Without Pressure
Encouraging therapy should come from a place of hope, not urgency:
“You deserve support for what you’re going through. Would you like me to help you find someone to talk to?”
If they’re hesitant, that’s okay. Continue to plant seeds of hope and keep the door open. Healing often begins with small steps.
Support Without Taking Reponsibility
It’s common for caring people to feel responsible for a loved one’s wellbeing—but that can become emotionally draining. Remember:
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You can care deeply without carrying everything.
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It’s okay to set limits around time, energy, and emotional availability.
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Seeking your own therapy or support group can help you maintain balance.
Boundaries protect both you and the person you love.
Know When to Seek Immediate Help
If your loved one mentions wanting to die, feeling like a burden, or engaging in risky behavior, treat it as a sign of crisis:
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Stay with them (if safe).
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Call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
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Contact or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline).
You don’t have to handle a crisis alone. Help is available 24/7.
Remember, Healing Takes Time
Change rarely happens overnight. Be patient—with them and with yourself. Small moments of connection—a kind message, a shared walk, or quiet listening—can build trust and hope over time.
Resources & Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
NAMI HelpLine – 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
SAMHSA Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Pathways to Hope – Local therapy and medication management services - 308-225-6167
You Don't Have to Walk This Alone
If you or someone you care about is struggling, Pathways to Hope provides compassionate, evidence-based care through therapy and medication management.Our team can help you understand what’s happening and support healing—one step at a time.