How to Support a Loved One Struggling with Mental Health (Without Losing Yourself)

When someone you care about is struggling with their mental health, it’s natural to want to help. You may feel responsible for easing their pain or finding a solution—but the truth is, you can’t fix another person’s mental health. What you can do is offer support, compassion, and healthy boundaries.

1. Listen Without Trying to Solve

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply listen. Let them share what they’re feeling without jumping in to give advice or fix the situation. Phrases like,

• “That sounds really hard.”

• “I’m here for you.”

• “You’re not alone.”

  
  

  can mean more than any quick solution.

2. Offer Practical Support

Small gestures can make a big difference—bringing them a meal, helping with chores, or sending a supportive message. Just be sure to ask what kind of help they actually want before stepping in.

3. Encourage Professional Help

It’s okay to gently suggest therapy or counseling. Remind them that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You might say, “You deserve support, and talking to someone could really help lighten this load.”

4. Set Healthy Boundaries

You can care deeply and still protect your own mental health. It’s not selfish to step back when you’re overwhelmed. You can say things like,

• “I care about you, but I also need to take care of myself.”

• “I’m here to listen, but I can’t be your only support.”

5. Remember—You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Them

You are not their therapist or their cure. Healing is something they have to work on themselves, with professional guidance and time. Your role is to love and support—not to carry their pain for them.

The Bottom Line

Supporting a loved one through mental health challenges takes empathy, patience, and boundaries. Be there, listen, encourage professional help—and take care of yourself along the way.

If your loved one is struggling, remind them that they don’t have to do this alone.

Our therapists are here to help individuals and families navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and more with compassion and evidence-based care.

Contact Waterview Counseling Services, located in Watertown, CT, today to schedule a confidential session and take the next step toward healing.