Tips on Talking to a Loved One When You Think They Need Therapy

It can be challenging to see someone you love struggling with mental health issues, especially when you are sure they could benefit from seeking professional help. It can be tricky to approach someone and encourage them to go to therapy. You may annoy them or turn them completely against the idea of therapy if you handle the situation in the wrong way. However, you can have this conversation effectively. Experts offer these steps for talking to a friend or loved one about how they could benefit from counseling in Orlando:

Be supportive.

Misconceptions have intensified societal stigma about therapy and mental health. If your loved one thinks you might treat them differently or judge them, they may fear seeking treatment, even when they know they need assistance. This makes it vital to approach them lovingly and assure them that you will support them as they seek help from therapy.

Show sensitivity to place and timing.

Emotional and physical sensitivity is required when discussing mental health issues with someone. How and where the subject is presented can determine how an individual reacts to suggestions. The person you are talking to may experience discomfort if you approach the conversation where others can hear or in front of other people. It would be best always to let the struggling person determine whether they want others to know about their problem. Showing them respect and allowing them to control treatment themselves is very important. You should also avoid talking to people about their mental health if they are in the middle of something important, on a work deadline, or having a bad day. Failing to do this may mean that they disregard or dismiss the importance of the conversation. Instead, always approach them when they are undistracted, relaxed, and in a decent mood. Always try to keep the conversation casual, friendly, and private.

Be prepared for resistance.

Not everyone who hears about therapy is willing to try it. If the person you love resists your suggestion for treatment, you must be prepared to make a strong case for it. Here are some great ideas to help you highlight therapy's importance.

• Leverage your relationship in the most loving way possible- Whether you're their relative, spouse, sibling, or friend, you should remind them how meaningful your relationship with them is. Try to explain how your relationship could get better if they attend therapy. It is always vital to avoid ultimatums as they cause a person emotional distress.
• Tell them things you admire about them- Reminding someone of the things you love about them makes it easier to talk about complex subjects. In addition, people are often motivated to take steps to be even better than they are when you highlight their good qualities.
• Lovingly remind them of their behavior problems- It is common for people who think they don't have a problem to refuse therapy. However, if you can discuss specific issues with them without being judgmental, you may help them understand the need for seeking professional counseling.

Be helpful.

Unless you can offer support to them, trying to convince them to go to therapy is not going to be encouraging. Many people are unsure of where to start looking for help. You can help them find a professional therapist close to them by researching therapy professionals, reviews, and credibility and reaching out to offices for them.

Sometimes it is scary to go to therapy alone or sign up for group support. It may be helpful to offer to attend therapy with them until they feel more comfortable. During the first few sessions, you can wait outside in the waiting room. Assuring them that you won't pry about their appointments unless they are willing to share with you can also help.

One of the best steps for a person struggling with mental health symptoms is seeking therapy. However, asking for help requires courage and strength. Be as open as possible with them when sharing suggestions and allow them to decide that best fits their life. Above all else, assure your loved ones that you will continue to support and love them throughout the therapy process.

Contact us today for more information on counseling in Orlando. We are here to support you or your loved one on their journey to better mental health.