How to help someone who suffers from a mental health condition?

In Puerto Rico, mental health issues are a significant concern. According to a study from the Puerto Rico Community Survey and data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), approximately 19.5% of the adult population reports having a mental health condition. This percentage may include disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues.

Additionally, data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimates that around 20-25% of adults in Puerto Rico experience some type of mental health issue in a given year. Furthermore, a large portion of individuals with symptoms do not seek professional help, which suggests the numbers could be much higher.

Many of us live, work, study, or interact with someone who has mental health challenges. Here are some steps we can take to assist, support, or help someone experiencing mental health issues:

Listen attentively: Pay close attention to what the person says without judgment. Listening is a great help.
Be courteous and honest: Avoid making promises.
Stay objective: Remember, it’s their process, not yours. Let them know you care.
Offer practical support: Ask how you can help. If you know of resources, share them (e.g., Employee Assistance Programs, university clinics, free helplines).
Foster trust and safety: These are sensitive topics. Be mindful of your body language to provide openness and security.
Highlight qualities and strengths: For example, «Since I’ve known you, I’ve noticed how much you love your family, work hard, keep your word, and care for others.»
Respect and accept their right to feel this way: Validate their feelings.
Provide feedback and clarification: If the person is crying, wait for a pause and repeat in your own words what you understood. You might gently ask, «Could you repeat what you just said? I want to make sure I fully understand everything you’re sharing.»
Take care of yourself: Supporting someone with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Practice self-care techniques.
Consult your mental health specialist if you have doubts or concerns.
Any gesture, no matter how small, will be appreciated by those who feel misunderstood or have no one to talk to. No one should feel alone during their most fragile moments.

Resources to Share:
911 – Emergencies
988 – Mental health emergencies
711 – Assists individuals with hearing or speech impairments to use the phone system
Línea PAS – 1-800-981-0023
Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988, then press 1
Employee Assistance Program – Contact your workplace’s Human Resources office
Universities – Psychological Services Clinics or inquire with the Student Affairs Office.