How To Support Someone With A Mental Health Condition?

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell when someone is going through a tough time, but figuring out if they have a mental health problem isn’t always straightforward. Living with someone with a mental health condition can be very exhausting as it can disrupt your mental peace as well. However, if we consider the example of Howard Meyer’s life, we’ll know that one can always heal and respond better in such situations. In his memoir, Raising the Ground Lowering the Sky, Howard shares his personal story of growing up with a father diagnosed with Bi-Polar I disorder. This book is a heartfelt resource for anyone affected by mental illness, whether personally or through a loved one.

In many cases, you don’t even need to know the specifics. What matters most is how you respond. Being kind, patient, and understanding can make a big difference, whether or not the person has a formal diagnosis. Mental health struggles look different for everyone. Even if two people have the same condition, their experiences and behaviors might not be the same. If you know someone well, you might notice changes in their mood, behavior, or energy levels. These changes could be a sign that they’re struggling. In this article, we’ll talk about how you can care for and support a person with a mental health illness.

What Can You Do?

If you’re worried about someone, do not wait for them to come to you. They might be hesitant to ask for help, and delaying could mean they miss out on support they need. Starting a conversation is the best first step. When you talk to them, make sure you set aside time without distractions. Create a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable opening up. Let them share as much or as little as they want. Don’t push them to talk about things they’re not ready to discuss. It takes a lot of courage for someone to open up, especially if they’ve been keeping their feelings to themselves.

Avoid trying to diagnose them or guess what they’re feeling. Unless you’re a trained professional, it’s not your role to figure out what’s wrong or offer solutions. Instead, listen without judgment and let them guide the conversation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How have you been feeling lately?” rather than making statements like, “You seem really sad.” This gives them the chance to express themselves in their own words. Be patient and give them time to respond. Don’t overwhelm them with too many questions at once.

You can also gently bring up the topic of self-care. Ask if they’ve found anything that helps them feel better, like exercise, hobbies, or relaxation techniques. Simple things like eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying active can have a big impact on mental health. Encourage them to take small steps toward caring for themselves, but don’t pressure them. Let them know you’re there to support them, no matter what.

Supporting someone with a mental health problem isn’t always easy, but your kindness and understanding can make a world of difference. If you’re looking for more guidance on how to help someone—or if you’re navigating your own mental health journey—consider reading Raising the Ground, Lowering the Sky by Howard Meyer. Meyer’s goal is to break the stigma surrounding mental health, inspire resilience, and empower individuals to find their own path

toward healing and growth. His message is one of compassion and hope, reminding us that we’re not alone in this journey.
Together, we can create a culture of understanding and support. Raising the Ground, Lowering the Sky is available on Amazon, and it’s a must-read for anyone looking to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.