How to Talk to Your Family About Mental Health

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Talking about your mental health can be extremely difficult, especially if you’re trying to explain it to family members or friends who have never had to deal with it themselves. While it’s good to talk to people you trust about your mental health, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health conditions that may prevent you from opening up. In today’s post, we will provide you with a few tips that you can use when talking to your family about mental health that will hopefully make the conversation a little easier.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health condition, then Long Island Counseling is here to help. We offer individual counseling, couple’s counseling, and a variety of other services to help you feel more at ease in your own body. Explore our website to learn more, and contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Create a Comfortable Environment

When talking to your family about your mental illness, it’s a good idea to do so in an environment that feels comfortable to you. Discussing your mental health condition while eating dinner at a nice restaurant may not be the best place or time to do so, especially if you’re unsure how your family is going to react.

Location, privacy, and time are the biggest concerns you choose to open up about mental illness. You want to feel as comfortable as possible, so find a place that provides you with the comfort you desire, as well as any privacy that you may need. Some people may feel more comfortable in a public place, whereas others may want the comfort and privacy of their own home. If you’re worried about negative reactions from your family, then you may even choose a less private location to avoid making a scene. Regardless of the location and level of privacy, you also need to keep in mind that it most likely won’t be a short conversation, so make sure you and your family both have enough time in your schedule.

Be Specific

Opening up and being vulnerable about your feelings can seem scary, and some people may choose to be vague about the details of their condition. Doing so may make you feel like you’re protecting yourself, but your family might not realize the severity of the situation.

Instead of being vague, it’s better to be specific about how you’ve been feeling. Your mental health is a part of you, and you want your family to see that. If you’re currently seeking treatment from a therapist, then tell your family how it has impacted your mental health. The more specific you are with your family, the better they will be able to understand you and provide you with the comfort and support that you need.

Schedule an Appointment at Long Island Counseling

If you are considering talking to your family or close friends about your mental health, then it may be a good idea to talk to a professional about how you should approach the subject. At Long Island Counseling, we offer individual counseling, couple’s counseling, and more, giving you the tools and support you need to overcome any obstacles that stand in your way. Interested in learning more about our services? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

We look forward to working with you.

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Long Island Counseling

Long Island Counseling
Lisa Lempel-Sander LPsyA
Licensed Psychoanalyst
221 Hollywood Ave
Douglaston NY 11363

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