It is difficult to watch someone that we care for struggle with stress or a trauma in their lives. We may offer support, but many people feel like they need to heal on their own and on their own schedule. It is normal for people to need some time to bounce back from a serious issue, but it can be hard to watch them wait and, in some cases, some people wait longer than they should to deal with the challenge.
As someone that loves them, you want them to get help, and sometimes you know that they need it. But it’s difficult, if not impossible, to force someone to get help if they’re not ready. At the same time, it’s arguably just as hard to do nothing.
Offering Support and Suggesting Therapy
It can be difficult to make the decision to speak with someone you love about therapy. Make sure that you choose a good time, when their schedule is clear and they are not irritated, under significant stress, or otherwise seem like they may be unreceptive. Prepare yourself for the conversation and try to approach it as a problem of your own, using the following methods to make your message easier to hear:
- Offer Tangible Evidence – If you are concerned about your friend, provide tangible evidence regarding why. It is more difficult to avoid taking responsibility if they are confronted with a dwindling work performance or substance abuse issues. Be careful not to sound like you’re blaming them for their emotions, only show them what you’ve seen.
- Lower The Bar – While your final goal may be for your loved one to go to regular therapy, instead ask them to go in for an evaluation. Many people are not willing to commit to weekly sessions right away, but they may be willing to receive a diagnosis or meet with a therapist.
- Offer Support – Stress that you will be there for them every step of the way. Tell them about other people that you know who went to therapy and how they were helped by it, and make sure they know you’re not forcing them. You would just like to see them get better, and you’re willing to do anything they need to facilitate.
f you are seeking a Long Island psychologist, call Dr. Marc Shulman today at (516)732-0273. He offers comprehensive mental health assessments and regular counseling to residents across Long Island. With over thirteen years of experience, he can provide the support and guidance that your loved one needs to find happiness again.
