I’m Worried About a Loved One
A lot of people experience ill mental health, many of which could be your loved ones. If you are worried about someone, please read the information below to find out how you might be able to help, before they seek professional help.
How can I help someone else?
Spot The Signs
- Feeling Anxious or Worried
- Irritable
- Argumentative
- Emotional Outbursts
- Quiet and Withdrawn
- Low Mood
- Self-harming
- Sleeping Problems
- Not want to be around other people
- Struggling to cope with work or school
- Cannot Concentrate
- Struggling Remembering
- Appetite or Weight Changes
- Have Suicidal Thoughts
How can I support them?
- Ask them questions – try to find out what the problems might be and what they would want to ask a professional.
- Look for information that might help them – you can find different resources and techniques online.
- If they want you to, you can attend appointments with them and waiting in the reception/waiting area.
- Find out if there is anything physical they would like your help with.
- Find out more about what is going on for them – you can find a list of resources on mental health and NHS sites.
What if they don’t want my help?
That is okay. They might not be ready for support just yet.
You can, let them know you value them and you will be there for them, should they need it. You can, tell them how they can access support if they change their mind.
You can’t, force them to talk to you or seek help. If they are over 18 and not in an emergency situation, you cannot force them to seek help as they are entitled to make their own decisions.
What if I don’t understand what they’re going through?
Do not panic. You are only human, you’re not going to understand everything. Be there to listen to them and be a friend.
What should I do if it is an emergency?
There could be times when your loved one is in an emergency situation:
- have harmed themselves and need medical attention
- are having suicidal thoughts and feel they may act on them
- are putting themselves or someone else at immediate, serious risk of harm.
If they are not safe by themselves right now:
Stay with them and help them call 999 for an ambulance, if you feel able to do so. Or you could help them get to A&E. They may appreciate it if you can wait with them until they can see a doctor.
If they can keep themselves safe for a little while:
You can get quick medical advice by contacting NHS 111 England or NHS 111 Wales. If you call 111, select option 2 to access a 24/7 mental health support helpline.
Or you could help them make an emergency GP appointment to see a doctor soon.
You can also encourage them to call Samaritans on 116 123 to talk to someone, 24 hours a day.
They could also call crisis service, Here For You, Wakefield on 07776 962 815 open everyday, 18:00 – 00:00.
It could also help to remove anything they could use to harm themselves, especially if they have mentioned specific things they might use.
If you or others feel in danger right now:
You can call 999 and ask for the police to help. You might feel worried about getting someone in trouble, but it’s important to put your own safety first.
How can I look after myself?
- Make sure you take time for yourself.
- Don’t over promise. Set your boundaries and make sure you know how you are willing to help.
- Talk to someone you trust about what you are going through.
To find support in your area, please visit: www.hubofhope.co.uk
For resources and more information, please visit: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
If you need help, get in touch.
For non-judgemental and confidential support. Contact us today.
5a Cheapside, Wakefield, WF1 2SD
01924 787501
resourcecentre@gasped.co.uk
Contact Us
If you would like to contact the team at Gasped to find out more about the work we do or volunteer to help. Please use the contact form or visit us on any of our social media pages.
Please note: our mailboxes and social media pages are NOT monitored 24/7.
To refer, call our office or return a completed referral form to our email.