Module 1 – Do’s of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness
👂 Do Listen Without Judgment
- Be available to listen with an open mind
- You don’t have to feel the same, but show you care
- Your words, body language, and tone all matter
❓ Do Ask Questions
- It’s okay to ask how they feel
- Ask about their symptoms or what might help
- Don’t push if they don’t want to answer
🧠 Do Encourage Help
- If they aren’t getting treatment, let them know help is available
- Offer to help them find treatment
- Back off if they don’t want help right now
🤲 Do Provide Practical Assistance
- Help make life a little easier
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Examples:
- Grocery shopping
- Cleaning the house
- Walking the dog
- Small tasks can be very helpful
📘 EASY READ TRAINING TEXTBOOK
Module 2 – Don’ts of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness
🚫 Don’t Say “I Know How You Feel”
- Even if you want to comfort them
- Comparing your feelings may make them feel misunderstood
🚫 Don’t Give Pep Talks
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Avoid saying things like:
- “Everything will be okay”
- “Just cheer up”
- These may make them feel judged or criticised
🚫 Don’t Think Distractions Will Fix Things
- Inviting them to activities is fine
- But don’t expect it to solve their mental health issues
- If they don’t want to join, that’s okay
🚫 Don’t Give Up on Them
- They may push you away sometimes
- This does not mean you should stop supporting them
- They might feel like a burden or be embarrassed
💡 Key Messages
- Support should be gentle and patient
- Helping with small tasks can matter a lot
- Avoid minimising or dismissing their experience
- Keep supporting them even if it’s hard
📝 Quick Check
- Name one thing you should do when supporting someone
- Name one thing you should not say
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