DESCRIPTION
Many individuals find themselves unsure of how to respond or what actions to take when someone they know is struggling with their mental health. This uncertainty can stem from a lack of knowledge about mental health conditions, fear of saying the wrong thing, or discomfort with the emotional intensity of the situation. Creating a supportive environment where the person feels safe and understood can make a significant difference, and training plus resources are available.
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IDENTIFY WARNING SIGNS
It is crucial to understand and recognize the signs associated with negative mental states. In order to prevent the situation from worsening or leading to adverse outcomes, some common signs should be known.
- Low mood, sad, expressionless
- Social isolation
- Negative self-talk, feeling hopeless, talking about self-harm
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TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO ASK
When you find someone who may be experiencing mental health problems, take the initiative to express care and ask about their feelings and needs. A simple expression of concern can make the other person feel supported.
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PROVIDE SUPPORT
In line with ‘taking the initiate to ask’, providing support is a huge factor. By listening, empathizing, and responding without judgement, you can help individuals feel understood and cared for. Majority of the time, lending an ear to someone going through a tough time as opposed to providing solutions is the correct approach. Additionally, encourage people who are struggling with their mental health to seek professional help such as counselling, therapy or drug intervention.
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RESOURCES
University of Victoria Campus:
- Student Wellness Center: A team of practitioners (counsellor, nurse, physician, & spiritual care provider) offer a variety of services to support students’ mental, physical and spiritual health. You can make a same-day or pre-booked appointment. Link: https://www.uvic.ca/student-wellness/index.php
- SupportConnect: Is a free, 24/7 (in-person, phone, or video) mental health support service for UVic students and gets you connected with qualified counsellors, consultants, and life coaches. Link: https://www.uvic.ca/student-wellness/wellness-resources/supportconnect/index.php
- Student Blog: Run by a group of UVic student bloggers with conversations about promoting wellness and self-care practices. Link: https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/studentmentalhealth/
- Student Wellness: Provides access to self-care and wellness tips. Link: https://www.uvic.ca/student-wellness/wellness-resources/mental-health/
- UVic Mental Health Club: Inclusive and supportive online community that works to promote mental health awareness on campus and in the community. Link: https://www.facebook.com/uvicmentalhealthclub/
- Peer Support Center: Has trained student volunteers available to listen and offer non-judgmental, empathetic and confidential support to fellow students. Link: https://uvss.ca/peer-support-centre/
24/7 Help Line:
- 1-800-SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433 is a 24-hour toll free crisis line for people who are feeling suicidal or concerned about someone who is suicidal
- 310 Mental Health Support: 250-310-6789 is toll-free number and offers emotional support, information on appropriate referral options, and a wide range of support relating to mental health concerns.
Video:
REFERENCES
Help Starts Here. (n.d.). 1-800-SUICIDE. https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/resource/1-800-suicide-0
Help Starts Here. (n.d.). 310 mental health support. https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/resource/310-mental-health-support
Mental Health America. (2024, April 29). How to help a friend with their mental health [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzVzv56me4s
University of Victoria. (n.d.). Mental health services. https://www.uvic.ca/students/health-wellness/mental-health-services/index.php