FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Mental health related questions, answered for you
SOMEBODY IN MY FAMILY HAS A MENTAL ILLNESS. WHAT ARE THE CHANCES THAT I WILL GO THROUGH THAT AS WELL?
Truth be told, there are some genetic factors in some mental health disorders. That being said, knowing that something exists in your family can also be a huge protective factor. For example, if you know that your parent or sibling has struggled with depression, you can start to keep tabs on where you are emotionally. If you feel like you are starting to show signs of depression, you can reach out to get support early on. If you have a parent or sibling who is an alcoholic, you could consider making the choice to never drink to numb an emotion, or to fully abstain from alcohol. If you know your parent or sibling is an addict, you should keep in mind that you may be more likely to develop an addiction, and decide not to even experiment with drugs. In these cases, knowledge can be power.
Source: https://www.kveller.com/teens-top-question-about-mental-health/
HOW DO I STAY STRESS-FREE DURING QUARANTINE?
During Covid-19 a pandemic that has changed lives all over the world, many countries are under shelter in place. For some staying at home can be stressful and may feel claustrophobic. However there are many different activities that may aid in helping relieve this stress.
1.) Go out for a walk
-If possible go outside and take in fresh air. It may not seem like much but it helps clear the mind and allows you to take in vitamins.
2.) Clean your room/home
-If you have lots of free time it may be helpful to clean up your home. This allows you to feel less cluttered as well as free up more room so you feel less claustrophobic.
3.) Talk to friends
-Try to socialize with others without breaking the CDC's 6 foot rule. This allows you to talk to others while simultaneously also keeping loved ones safe
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html
WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I AM STRESSED DURING QUARANTINE?
Quarantine limits contact with people which is detrimental to people with mental health issues. Do not worry, there are people who are here to help you. If you are currently a high school student, try contacting your respective school counselor to talk about any issues you may feel during quarantine. Even if you need someone to talk to try reaching out to your family, friends, and counselor so you can talk to someone if you need help. For adults, you can try contracting a free counseling service so that you have someone to talk to. There will always be someone here to help you. If needed please contact the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 to talk to an immediate counselor if the your situation is dire. The Suicide Hotline also has a Lifeline chat available 24/7 for anyone that needs to talk to someone.
HOW DO I TELL SOMEBODY THAT MY FRIEND IS REALLY DEPRESSED OR STRUGGLING, WITHOUT MAKING THEM HATE ME FOR BETRAYING THEIR TRUST?
If your gut is telling you that you need to tell an adult what is going on with your friend, listen to your gut– it’s why we have them! If your friend has mentioned self-harm or is acting in a way that leads you to believe that they may hurt themselves or somebody else, tell someone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the weight of what they are telling you, tell someone. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Go to a trusted adult and let them know what is going on.
A favorite teacher, a parent, or a clergy member is a great place to start, and get advice about what to do. That adult can make sure that your friend gets the help they need. When possible, they can get your friend help without revealing that it was you who told them. But that’s not always the case, and your friend may be mad at first that you shared something private. We are going to be very blunt and say that you would probably rather your friend be mad at you for a few weeks than have your friend hurt themselves. Often once your friend starts getting help, they will feel relieved, and realize that you said something because you love them. It may take time, but if your friend is getting the help they need, that’s worth it.
Source: https://www.kveller.com/teens-top-question-about-mental-health/
HOW CAN I SUPPORT MY FRIEND WHO IS STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?
First, know that you’re a good friend, because they are comfortable telling you about their mental health and being themselves in front of you.
Second, be present. Let them know that you are totally there to listen and help in whatever way you can. Don’t change the subject if they start talking about their mental health or illness. Sometimes when somebody is struggling, they push the world away a bit. Maybe every time you text your friend to hang out, they say no. Be patient. Keep inviting them. Let them know you love them unconditionally. Keep being their friend, even when it’s hard.
Third, make sure they are getting the help they need. Ask questions like, “Have you ever talked to anyone about the way you’re feeling?” If you feel like you can encourage your friend to get some help or to tell a trusted adult, go for it. But if you can’t do that without being pushy, or pushed away, have an adult try to get your friend help instead. Many people who are going through mental health challenges or a crisis are not ready to admit it or ask for help—so instead of getting frustrated, loop an adult in to help and just keep being a good friend.
Souce: https://www.kveller.com/teens-top-question-about-mental-health/