Guide To Discussing Mental Health Conditions

There exists a communication technique called "Healthy Dialogue". I always advise people to use this technique in relationships that they would like to keep, but it becomes increasingly more important when communicating with an individual who has a mental health diagnosis. There are 4 very important steps of Healthy Dialogue:

Reflection - Reflection is the act of repeating back or paraphrasing what the individual has said. This serves two purposes. Firstly, it serves to ensure that we comprehend what was said. Secondly, it demonstrates to the individual that they were heard.

Example - "What I'm hearing you say is that you and your partner broke up and it is making you feel sad and lonely and you are experiencing grief and loss, due to the relationship ending."
 

Validation- Validation is the act of telling the individual that the emotions they feel are valid and true. Oftentimes, we can feel that our emotions are not worthy of mention or that we are wrong for having them. Validation is what tells us that we are allowed to feel our emotions.

Example - "It's okay to be sad and lonely and angry that you and your partner broke up. That is a standard human emotion and you have a right to feel that way."
 

Empathy - "Empathy" comes from the Greek word "Empatheia" which means "To Suffer" with someone. When we feel negative emotions, we can sometimes feel like the only person in the whole world who feels that way. It's a very isolating experience and, being told that we are not unique in those emotions, can make us feel less alone.

Example - "I've experienced breakups before, and, in my own way, I've felt those feelings before, too."
 

Problem Solving - Once we have identified the problem, the emotions, and acknowledged their existence, it is important to problem solve. Problem solving is the end result of successful psychotherapy and, without it, we psychologically stay in the same place with the same unwanted emotions.

Example - "What do you feel that you need right now? Would you like to talk about it, would you like to have some time by yourself, or would you like a distraction?"
 

Whether we have a mental health diagnosis or not, we all experience times when our emotions become so great that we feel that we cannot manage them on our own. That's the time when we need to go to others for support. Master these steps and yours will be a relationship of mutual respect and empathy."

• What are effective strategies for discussing mental health conditions with loved ones?
  • Effective strategies for discussing mental health conditions involve using empathetic communication, active listening, and providing non-judgmental support. These strategies foster understanding and openness in conversations about mental health.
• How can I support a friend or family member with depression and anxiety?
  • Supporting someone with depression and anxiety includes offering your presence, listening without judgment, encouraging professional help if needed, and educating yourself about their condition. It's essential to prioritize their well-being and provide reassurance.
• What are some tips for talking to someone about their bipolar disorder diagnosis?
  • When discussing bipolar disorder, it's helpful to approach the conversation with empathy, respect their experiences, avoid minimizing their feelings, and offer practical support. Understanding the highs and lows of bipolar disorder helps in providing meaningful support.
• How do I start a conversation about PTSD with someone who may be experiencing it?
  • Starting a conversation about PTSD requires sensitivity and respect for their boundaries. Begin by expressing your concern, offering to listen, and validating your feelings. Avoid pressuring them to share details before they are ready and encourage professional support options.
• What should I know about discussing schizophrenia with someone diagnosed with it?
  • When discussing schizophrenia, it's crucial to educate yourself about the condition, approach the conversation calmly, and focus on your well-being. Offer empathy, avoid stigmatizing language, and emphasize their strengths and capabilities.

A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry

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