Within the role of the support network there is a fine line to walk and it is a question of whether or not to ask a third party for help. In which case should it be passed? An expert speaks on the topic.
Very frequently, people who are concerned about the emotional state or mental situation of a friend or family member come to the service channels of Porque Quiero Esta Bien. When they communicate, they report that their loved one is very ill and needs professional attention and that is why they contact them to request an appointment on their behalf.
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That is a complex moment, As psychologists we understand the user’s concern and we know that they are acting from the love and concern they feel for the other; however, we cannot provide the service to someone who is not requesting it. We cannot force a person, who does not want or does not consider necessary, to start a process to have an appointment with a therapist.
Due to a social process in which we have begun to notice the importance of mental health care, it is likely that many Let us be more aware that there are situations that generate alerts and we have the best intentions when wanting to help others, but it is not that simple.
There are still many social barriers, such as prejudice and the belief that seeking help makes us weak, which perpetuate not wanting to seek therapy. So, some believe that their problems, particularly those related to mental health, should be handled privately, without talking about it with others and, definitely, outside of a therapeutic environment; For this reason, when they come to therapy “forced” by someone else, it is evident that the process is not successful.
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Unfortunately, we have seen many processes in which there is no desire to change on the part of the client and, because of this, the therapy does not generate a positive and important impact.
This is because an appointment with the psychologist is a therapeutic space in which the person must be willing to talk, accept that there are things that can be improved and work for them.. In the event that a third party seeks care or therapy, it is very likely that the person who needs it is not yet ready or willing to use the tools provided in consultation or changes suggested by the psychologist and the only thing that is generated be an increase in discomfort.
Therefore, even in the midst of concern, It is not advisable that we force a close person to attend a psychology consultation if they do not want to do so.In the end, the reality is that We are only responsible for our own mental health, not that of others.
Another way to help
There are some things we can do to help others in difficult times, here are some recommendations:
- You can start by learning and becoming more informed about mental health. If you are here it is because the topic matters to you and, probably, someone close to you is having some difficulty. It is not recommended that you force this person to attend a consultation, but you can start reading and learn a little more about what you are observing in him or her to help him or her to the best of your ability.
- You can request an appointment for yourself. An appointment with psychology is not exclusively for people who are going through a crisis in their mental and emotional health or for those who already have a diagnosis. Within the framework of a psychology process we can provide support, through crisis management strategies, to friends or family of a person who is going through a difficult time.
- If you can, talk to this person. Tell him that you have noticed changes that worry you and that, while you deeply respect his time and his decisions, if at any point he decides to seek help, you are there to provide it. Tell him; Furthermore, if at any time they decide to look for a professional, you can accompany them.
- Take care of yourself. We know that accompanying and caring for a person who may be having an emotional problem can be complex and, at times, it can be difficult to balance your own needs while prioritizing his or hers. To take care of others we must first take care of ourselves, so it is timely that you take time to take care of yourself, manage stress and take care of your health.
- Define limits. There are times when the situation is too complex, the person does not want to start a process, but their well-being and that of others is being significantly affected. It’s okay to tell him or her what is happening and to let him or her know that, while you respect his or her autonomy, he or she needs to think about what strategies he or she can use to improve the situation and that you are willing to help him or her, as long as he or she takes action.
If you want to know more about how to support a person going through a bad time, contact us and let us guide you. Call us or write to us for free at 3330333588.