Talking to Your Family About Mental Health

" A child's mental health is just as important as their physical health"- Kate Middleton

Talking about mental health with your family can either be a great growth experience or a challenging experience. Talking about mental health with your family is important as they may be able to provide you the support you need. Sometimes sharing our mental health challenges with our family can feel like a weight has been lifted off of us. However, it may feel very stressful to begin a conversation with our loved ones. Here are are few things to consider before talking to your family about your mental health :

1) Take a moment to write down your thoughts and how you are feeling

2) Share what it means to open up to them in your own words

3) Prepare yourself for different types of reactions or responses (ex: supportive, having a hard time understanding or not supportive)

4) Practice what you would like to say in the mirror if you are feeling nervous

5) Pick a time and space that works for you to share your news

6) Let your family know how they can be supportive

7) Seek out other supportive people to be in your corner (ex: people to practice your conversation with or people who have been a great sounding board)

What have you found helpful when talking to your family about mental health?

What have you not found helpful when talking to your family about mental health?