There are a lot of mental health issues out there that we fail to address because we either turn a blind eye to the illness or simply don’t know how to tackle it. Unfortunately, so many people lose to these silent battles in their heads. It’s high time we try our best to understand what they entail and learn how to help those in need. In a Facebook post, Rafael Quilala enumerates several ways we can do this.

How to Help Those with Mental Health Issues

4. Reach out and talk to them.

“If you care for someone, reach out and take time to talk to them,” says Rafael. “Genuinely ask them how they are.” Rafael explains that most people tend to keep their problems within themselves as they don’t have a strong support system. Eventually, they drown in their own sadness, leading to suicidal thoughts. “As much as possible, just lend your ear and ask whether they would like some advice from you.”

3. Do not belittle their feelings.

You probably mean well, but comparing your stories or battles to theirs isn’t helpful. Rafael points out that we all have different levels of emotional stability, coping mechanisms, and ways of thinking. “Just try to not downplay or devaluate their feelings because they are valid, no matter how you see it,” he adds.

2. Encourage them to seek professional help.

If you don’t know how to respond after listening to them, encourage them to seek professional help. Rafael explains that some people self-medicate because they are scared of the stigma that envelops mental health issues.

1. Be kind, respectful and understanding.

Rafael reminds us to always be kind, respectful and understanding to everyone around us. “You don’t know what kind of impact it could make to someone who might be at their lowest point in life,” he says.

He also shares a few hotlines in case you need someone to talk to any time of the day:

Manila Lifeline Centre: (02) 896-9191 or 0917-8549191
The Natasha Goulbourn Foundation: (02) 804-HOPE (4673) or 0917-558HOPE (4673)

Read his original post here: