Short messages on Mental health, stress and anxiety issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
There might be times when your friend says that he or she isn’t able to hang out because of their illness. It’s important that you respect this and don’t put extra pressure on your friend.
Make sure that the conversations you have about your friend’s illness are easy and open. Try asking about what helps your friend get through the tough times. By talking openly, you’re letting your friend know that you love and support them.
You can try a variety of grounding techniques and rate the effectiveness of each technique in keeping you calm. Have others assist you in using these techniques by reminding you to practice them and use them as soon as you are feeling emotionally distressed.
To practice mentally grounding yourself, focus on some aspect of the physical world around you, rather than on your internal thoughts and feelings. Focus on the present rather than the past. Practice your grounding techniques so that they will come naturally when you are upset.
If you have a friend who suffers from mental health difficulties, be aware of the stigma associated with this and keep an open mind. This might help create a safe environment for your friend, which can allow him or her to relax and enjoy life.
Someone who is experiencing mental health difficulties is usually able to live a successful full life, particularly if they are receiving help to manage the illness. They might feel embarrassed or like an outcast, but there are things you can do to help make them feel more comfortable.
Grounding techniques are useful when we feel distressed, overwhelmed emotionally, triggered or mentally removed from the present moment. They help bring us back into the here and now in a safe way. The more present you are in your body, the calmer and safer you will feel.
Grounding techniques are a set of tools used to assist you to stay in the present moment during episodes of intense anxiety or other overwhelming emotions. Staying in the present moment allows people to feel safe and in-control by focusing on the physical world and how they experience it.
It’s important that you can trust the person you decide to speak with about a situation. This could be a friend, someone older, a family member, teacher, counsellor, doctor or nurse. If they don’t have the experience to provide the support you need, they could refer you to a specialist.
Talking through your concerns can be a great way to vent and release pent-up tension. Just “getting the problem out” can help you feel better. Not only does it feel great, but it can also give you new insights into what’s happening in your life.