Never Say These Things To Someone Suffering From Mental Illness
Mental illness costs people relationships and jobs. It scares people away from seeking help who really need it. It also brings shame and fear in the minds of those who suffer badly from it. It is quite frustrating for those with a mental illness to be listening to anyone. They mostly want to be left alone or isolate themselves. To add to it, there are some really annoying people who come around saying things which they have heard before or are really tired of listening to.
I've put together a list of the least impressive things or what you should avoid telling a person suffering from Mental Illness.
#1. "You should snap out of it."
When a person suffers from mental illness, they kind of envy how simple it would be to snap out of it. But only they know what they are dealing with. There comes the point where the person finds it tough to even get out of bed.
#2. "Try eating healthier food, it will help you."
Like seriously! The person is depressed and is already going through so much. You think eating salads, vegetables or any kind of healthy food is going to help? No, way! Some french fries or a tub of ice cream may help.
#3. "You just need to relax."
We know you're trying to help, but asking them to relax, is probably the last thing you want to say to them or don't say it at all. Relaxing isn't going to help. Maybe they've tried it, and it definitely hasn't worked for them.
#4. "It's all in your head."
Ofcourse it is - It is a mental illness. Anyone struggling with a mental illness will tell you how hard it is some days just to cope with your own negative thoughts.
#5. "Why are you freaking out?"
There are a million things going on in the sufferers head all at one time. It's like having all the apps open at one time, but you're struggling to keep up, and the screen just freezes. That's how a person feels and does not want to hear the words come out of your mouth, asking them "why are they freaking out?"
#6. "My problems are way worse than yours.
viaIt is annoying when someone compares their problems to yours. Also, you telling them that your problem is worse than theirs is not going to make the sufferer's problem go away. Your problems may be bad, but not as bad as that of the person suffering from depression.
#7. "You're far too sensitive."
By saying this, you are making them feel so much worse like their illness is some character flaw and nothing else.
#8. "You should try exercising."
Not everyone can cope with mental illness. It is very difficult to come out of this. Sometimes, though it could improve your overall mood and help you de-stress, some are far too severe for exercise alone.
#9. "Stop being such a Drama Queen.
Yes, you will notice that person is being such a drama queen; and that's because they are. But you telling them, is not going to help, whatsoever.
#10. "Don't you worry. Everything is going to be fine."
It is sometimes really hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Everything is not always fine. You should know that for some people, things may not be going so well, but a little encouragement will be good and tell them that you will get through this together.
Mental illness is an illness that is very real, and also affects your lifestyle. So, treat it like the illness it is. Treat a sufferer the same way you would treat someone with a physical illness. Show some support, understanding and do not judge them. That way, the sufferers will feel more confident in speaking out and asking for help when they need it the most.