Support the Mental Health of People You Know

COVID-19 is taking a huge toll on the faith and mental health of people right now. The mix of constant bad news and the enforced isolation is poised to send anyone spiralling.

If there is someone you know who may be struggling with the current situation, we’ve put together a few small ways you can help look after them. Three ways to support the mental health of vulnerable people throughout the Coronavirus crisis.

Take the Time Out to Listen

We don’t all need a problem solver. Sometimes we just want to be heard. Really heard. If you make it clear that you are happy to simply listen, and listen well, then you will already have made a difference. Just make sure you can follow through.

Offer Help in Any Way You Can

This doesn’t have to be anything big. It can be as simple as doing a grocery shop for them, offering to do a couple of jobs (if it is someone you live with), or running a couple of outdoor errands. Any way to lighten the load will be appreciated. Helping them live in a tidy space will make a difference.

Make Sure You Regularly Check-In

One-off gestures are nice, but to really make a difference there needs to be consistency. That can mean calling or message at the same time or day every time. Or having guaranteed periods of availability where you can help no matter what.

Gently Encourage Them to Excercise

Exercise and reconnecting with nature is vital to the mind. It also provides the chance to get away from screens, from the constant Coronavirus news, and gain a little bit of space and fresh air.

Pray for Them, But Not Necessarily With Them

Prayer makes a big difference, but there can be a pressure for the person to feel they need to show their situation has improved if you pray with them. In the daily course of your quiet prayers, just keep them in mind.

Do Your Homework

There is a difference between caring and caring well. If you want to better understand the impact and experience of struggling with mental health, check out some of the books in our Mental & Emotional Health department. Books like Honestly Over Silence by Patrick Regan will help you and your Church foster an open environment for people who are finding it difficult.

Return to the list of practices for Christians during Coronavirus: https://www.eden.co.uk/blog/7-practices-for-christians-during-coronavirus-p1784105