Family Guide to Mental Health

family gathered around couch, talking

Mental health is health and, as with health care, it is an essential part of a person’s overall well-being. It influences how they think, feel, and interact with people, not the least of which are our loved ones. In today’s fast-paced society, mental health challenges affect millions of individuals and families. Understanding mental health and knowing how to best support loved ones can strengthen family bonds, and this starts with awareness and compassion. Families that openly address mental health create a foundation of trust and empathy that helps everyone live a happier, healthier, fulfilling life.

What Is Mental Health?

Mental health is a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how people handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health can fluctuate due to life events, including separation and divorce, genetic factors, and lifestyle choices. Common mental health conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, narcissism, and bipolar disorder (BPD).

Maintaining one’s mental health requires effective stress management skills, healthy relationships, and the willingness to acknowledge one’s mental health struggles and seek appropriate help when it’s needed. Mental health care can include tools like a mindfulness practice, therapy, and prescription medication, depending on individual needs. Just like physical health, mental well-being requires consistent attention and care.

Who Struggles With Mental Health Issues?

Mental health issues are widespread, impacting people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 20% of adults in the U.S. experience a mental illness each year. Children and teens are also affected, with more than 15% having mental health disorders. People of any race can and do experience mental health struggles, with the most affected groups being Native Americans and people of more than one race. But only around half of those who experience a mental illness crisis take the steps to receive treatment.

How to Talk About Mental Health

Talking about mental health might feel hard and uncomfortable at first, but open and honest conversations can break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues and strengthen family relationships between spouses, children, and extended family; preserving family relationships in the face of challenges. Start by choosing a comfortable, private space where everyone feels at ease. When the time feels right, ask open-ended questions like, “How have you been feeling lately?” to invite honest sharing. As you listen, show empathy by being fully present and avoiding interruptions or judgments.

Offering support when someone is struggling can be as simple as saying, “I’m here for you,” or “You don’t have to face this alone.” Avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions about what your loved one is going through. Instead, focus on what they share, using caring, nonjudgmental language that shows understanding and validating their experiences and emotions. When someone feels truly heard, they’re more likely to open up about their personal struggles. Consistent, heartfelt conversations can create a safe space where your family feels supported and empowered to seek help when needed.

Mental Wellness Tips

  • Maintain Healthy Routines: Regular sleep, exercise, and balanced meals support both physical and mental health.
  • Encourage Open Communication: Make every child and adult in your household feel safe sharing their feelings without fear of criticism.
  • Spend Quality Time Together: Shared activities can build strong relationships and facilitate the opportunity for connection.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid putting too much pressure on family members over their performance at school, work, or home. This is not to say that there should be no expectations, only that they should be realistic and individualized based on the needs and abilities of the family members.
  • Take Time for Self-Care: Setting aside time for activities like journaling, meditating, or enjoying hobbies can help to improve mental health.
  • Know When to Seek Help: Recognize when professional support might be needed, such as therapy or counseling.

Where to Get Help

If you or a member of your family is struggling with mental health, reach out to mental health professionals such as therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists. Many community organizations and helplines offer support, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Remember that seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness: It’s a sign of strength and the first step toward healing.