Dealing with mental issues is hard enough on your own, and it’s way harder if you have a family and a partner that depend on you. However, having a family also means that you can depend on them to help you get through those days when you feel like you just want to break down. But really, maintaining your bond as a family while dealing with mental illness is totally possible, and it can even bring your family closer together.
1. Don’t be afraid to seek help
A lot of people who struggle from mental illness don’t even know that they have a problem. People feel that being diagnosed with a mental illness makes you crazy, when in reality, mental illness is just like having a normal physical illness. The only difference is that you’re brain is the one having problems.
Which is why it’s important for you to seek help. That’s the first and most vital step to get you on the road to recovery.
If your spouse is the one who’s struggling from mental illness, then be supportive. Let them feel that you’re not judging them, and that you genuinely want them to get better for themselves, as well as for your family. Your support is very important.
2. Talk about it with your family
Aside from seeking professional help, talking things with your family is an important part of getting better. Do your best to explain your situation to them, and trust that they will be understanding and will support you.
Likewise, if a family member is struggling from mental illness, don’t be afraid to reach out. It might take some time for them to open up and talk about what they’re going through, but the important thing would be to show that you’re willing to listen, supportive, and non-judgmental.
3. Take care of yourself
If you’re worried that your mental illnesses might get in the way of caring for your family, then it’s totally fine to work on yourself first. It’s hard to take care of other people if you can’t even take care of yourself. Learn to trust your spouse, and don’t be burdened by the extra responsibility that you’re giving them. Make them feel that you’re trying your best to get better, and celebrate small victories with each other.
4. Be honest about what you’re feeling
It’s not enough to talk to them about what you’re going through, but you have to be completely honest with them. If there are days where you feel like you want to give up, you should be open with your family, especially with your spouse.
Creating an environment where you are free to talk about your feelings without any judgment is vital when it comes to handling a mental illness. Just like in most relationships, communication is very important, more so for people who are struggling with a mental illness.
5. Trust your family
Trust goes both ways. If you trust your family, then they will trust you as well. A relationship build on mutual trust, honesty, and openness makes for a strong support group for someone struggling with mental illness.
Mental illness is hard for any family, but trust, positive thinking, and constant support will make things better, and will make everyone in the family feel closer together. Because at the end of the day, family should be the most important thing in our lives. Be there for your family, and they will be there for you too.
Source: scarymommy.com, themighty.com
READ: Did you know that postpartum depression can affect dads too?
Be sure to check out theAsianparent Community for more insightful stories, questions, and answers from parents and experts alike. If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!