What to do when someone tells you they had a mental breakdown?

Listen to them without judgment and make sure they know they're not alone. It's also important to let your loved one lead the conversation so you're able to talk about topics they feel comfortable discussing. "Follow and support rather than lead and advise," explains Sue.

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What to do when someone says they are having a mental breakdown?

If someone close to you is having a mental breakdown, one of the best things you can do is be present for them and listen to their needs. And making it clear that you are there to offer support without passing judgment can also be very helpful.

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What not to say to someone having a mental breakdown?

10 things not to say to someone with a mental illness
  1. “It's all in your head.” ...
  2. “Come on, things could be worse!” ...
  3. “Snap out of it!” ...
  4. “But you have a great life, you always seem so happy!” ...
  5. “Have you tried chamomile tea?” ...
  6. “Everyone is a little down/moody/OCD sometimes – it's normal.” ...
  7. “This too shall pass.”

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How do you cheer up someone having a breakdown?

How to Help Someone Who is Having an Emotional Breakdown
  1. Reach out when you see they need help. ...
  2. Move to a quiet, private location. ...
  3. Invite them to talk or communicate in some way. ...
  4. Listen and give support. ...
  5. Stay as calm as possible. ...
  6. What to say or not to say. ...
  7. Encourage self-care.

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What do you say to someone who is emotionally drained?

11 ways to help someone struggling emotionally
  • Validate their emotions. Letting someone know that they are not alone and being open to what they want to share is an important step. ...
  • Just show up. ...
  • Be a good listener. ...
  • Keep things confidential. ...
  • Keep the door open. ...
  • Spend time with them. ...
  • Offer praise. ...
  • Offer practical help.

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Defining a Nervous Breakdown

45 related questions found

How long does a mental breakdown last?

People experiencing a nervous breakdown may dissociate or have suicidal thoughts. Unable to perform the activities of everyday life, they usually require treatment from a mental health professional. A nervous breakdown may last for days, weeks, months—even years.

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What are signs of a breakdown?

feel isolated — disinterested in the company of family and friends, or withdrawing from usual daily activities. feel overwhelmed — unable to concentrate or make decisions. be moody — feeling low or depression; feeling burnt out; emotional outbursts of uncontrollable anger, fear, helplessness or crying.

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How do you respond to someone who is struggling?

One of the best things you can do when someone is really struggling is to acknowledge and validate their struggle. Saying things like, “I see that you're really having a hard time and I'm here for you when you need me” can let the person know that you see their pain and want to be there for them.

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What to do when someone says their mental health is bad?

Reminding your friend or family member that help is available and that mental health problems can be treated. Asking questions, listening to ideas, and being responsive when the topic of mental health problems come up. Reassuring your friend or family member that you care about them.

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Can someone recover from a mental breakdown?

With the right treatment, you, or your loved one, can recover and begin to heal. If you want to learn more about Futures' Mental Health program and how it can help you or a loved one contact us today. Reach out confidentially either online or call us at 866-804-2098.

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What does a psychotic break look like?

Typically, a psychotic break indicates the first onset of psychotic symptoms for a person or the sudden onset of psychotic symptoms after a period of remission. Symptoms may include delusional thoughts and beliefs, auditory and visual hallucinations, and paranoia.

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What do you say to a girl having a breakdown?

A good way to avoid giving advice is to just ask questions. Supportive silence (please add in a few “uh-huhs” and “mmm-hmms,” for the love of God) is your best friend, but if you do feel the need to say anything, make it a question. “What is it that worries you most?” works.

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What to say when someone says they have mental health issues?

Words of encouragement for someone with a mental illness: 6 helpful things to say
  • 1) “I'm here for you.”
  • 2) “You are not alone.”
  • 3) “You are worthy and deserving.”
  • 4) “You don't have to apologize.”
  • 5) “There is treatment available to you…”
  • 6) “Let me know what you need.”

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What to say to someone who says they are struggling with their mental health?

Let them know their feelings are valid

No matter what they are struggling with, their experiences are valid and it can be helpful to remind your friend of this. You could say something like 'its okay to feel like that' or, 'what you're going through sounds really tough'.

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What not to say to someone struggling?

Things You Should Never Say to Someone Who is Depressed
  • Telling anyone how they should feel is the most condescending thing you could possibly do. ...
  • Life isn't fair. ...
  • Again, you are minimizing this persons struggle. ...
  • Telling a person what to feel or how to feel is useless. ...
  • Telling someone to cheer up is insensitive.

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How do you comfort someone going through something hard?

7 Ways to Console Someone Going Through a Hard Time
  1. Be There for Them. We show up for the people we care about. ...
  2. Tell Them (and Show) That You Love Them. ...
  3. Let Them Know You're Thinking of Them.
  4. Take Time to Listen. ...
  5. A Hug Can Speak Volumes.
  6. Share Memories. ...
  7. Continue Offering Support.

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How to support someone going through a mentally tough time answers?

How to be a good friend to someone who is struggling
  1. Validate what they're saying. People want to feel heard, especially when they are struggling with difficult emotions or experiences that might make them feel very alone. ...
  2. Ask how you can help. ...
  3. Be understanding of their limitations. ...
  4. Don't gossip. ...
  5. Change the subject.

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What are three signs of a person having a mental breakdown?

The most common signs someone is having a mental breakdown are: Hopelessness. Thoughts of suicide. Sense of worthlessness.

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How does a mental breakdown start?

When the stress becomes unbearable, it can lead to a nervous breakdown. Studies have shown that stress affects both your mind and your body. Long-term stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, which can affect your memory and lead to difficulty concentrating.

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What are the 5 stages of mental breakdown?

5 stages of behavioral health conditions and how to address them
  • Stage one: Emergence of a mental health or substance abuse condition. ...
  • Stage two: Early clinical symptoms. ...
  • Stage three: Severe conditions. ...
  • Stage four: Chronic impairment. ...
  • Stage five: Recovery. ...
  • The impacts of providing support.

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Are mental breakdowns serious?

While a nervous breakdown is temporary, it is serious and should be treated as a mental health crisis. An evaluation by a psychiatrist or other mental health professional can help determine if there is an underlying mental illness contributing to the breakdown that needs to be diagnosed and treated.

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How long does it take to feel normal after a mental breakdown?

How long a nervous breakdown will last depends on many factors. Some people may have a minor crisis that lasts for an afternoon, while someone else may experience a more severe breakdown that leaves them dysfunctional for weeks.

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How do you help someone who doesn't want to be helped?

Fortunately, there are several ways of getting mental help for someone who doesn't want it without forcing or cornering them.
  1. Listen and Validate Their Feelings. ...
  2. Ask Questions. ...
  3. Resist the Urge to Fix or Give Advice. ...
  4. Explore Options Together. ...
  5. Find Support for Yourself.

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