When someone you care about is experiencing mental health or substance abuse concerns, it is natural to want to solve the problem quickly. Support is often more helpful when it begins with listening and respects the person’s ability to participate in decisions about their own care.
Choose a calm time to talk. Describe what you have noticed without labeling or diagnosing the person, and ask open questions about how they are doing. Listen for understanding rather than preparing an argument. If they are not ready to talk, let them know you remain available.
Offer specific, realistic help. You might assist with finding contact information, preparing questions for an appointment, arranging transportation, or completing everyday tasks. Ask what would be useful before taking action, and avoid making promises you cannot keep.
Boundaries protect both people. Be clear about what you can provide, what you cannot manage safely, and when professional or emergency help is needed. Supporting someone does not require accepting threatening behavior, ignoring your own health, or becoming their only source of assistance.
Encourage professional care without using shame or pressure. You can explain that an assessment may help clarify options and offer to be present when they contact a provider if they want that support. The final treatment decision belongs to the individual unless a legal or immediate safety situation requires otherwise.
Take care of your own well-being and seek support when needed. If the person is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For suicide or mental health crisis support in the United States, call or text 988.