How to support someone with mental health issues


Hey there, friend! As a micro-influencer with 11,000 followers on Instagram, I can tell you firsthand how social media can be a double-edged sword, especially when it comes to someone with mental health issues. Scrolling through endless feeds filled with perfectly angled selfies, meticulously staged adventures, and carefully crafted success stories can definitely leave you feeling a little…down. For someone struggling with mental health, the seemingly perfect lives portrayed on social media can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and inadequacy.

Just the other day, I spent way too long admiring another influencer’s seemingly flawless vacation photos – dreamy beaches, vibrant sunsets, exotic cocktails – and suddenly my own weekend plans felt a bit underwhelming. But the truth is, those photos likely took countless tries to capture, and that “perfect” vacation probably had its share of mishaps and mundane moments. 

This experience, along with countless interactions with my followers, had made me hyper-aware of the curated reality social media presents. It’s easy to forget that everyone experiences struggles, even the people with the most enviable online personas. This is why I’m passionate about raising awareness of how social media can impact mental health, not just for myself, but for my friends and followers as well.

The Up and Down Sides of Social Media

We all know social media can be a fun way to connect with friends and family, share cool things, and maybe even learn a new dance move or two (remember the floss?). According to a 2021 Pew Research Center study, social media use has increased significantly, particularly for fostering online communities. While it can be a platform for creativity and positive social change (consider the #MeToo movement), research from the National Institute of Mental Health NIMH suggests that the constant comparison to others’ curated online personas can negatively impact mental health. If you see someone struggling online, keep reading to learn how to support someone with mental health issues. 

Understanding Mental Health Issues

Here’s the thing: mental health issues are just like physical health challenges, are common experiences that shouldn’t be stigmatized. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one in five adults in the U.S. experiences a mental health illness in a given year. These challenges can manifest in various ways, ranging from situational anxieties to more persistent conditions like depression or OCD. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) provides a comprehensive resource library on various mental health conditions. Mental health issues can come in many different forms, and affect people in different ways but it is important to know there is nothing to be ashamed of. Showing support to someone who struggles with mental illness is equally as important as them understanding their issues.  

How to support someone with mental health issues and social media's affects

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media can exacerbate these challenges in several ways. Here’s a deeper dive into how:

  • Comparison Trap: The constant barrage of curated feeds filled with seemingly perfect lives can trigger feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. Friends struggling with self-esteem may compare their unfiltered moments to others’ highlight reels, leading to a distorted view of reality and increased self-criticism.
  • Body Image Issues: Social media is full of airbrushed photos and unrealistic beauty standards. This can be particularly damaging for friends already struggling with body image or eating disorders. The constant exposure to unrealistic portrayals can worsen their negative self-perception and fuel unhealthy body comparisons.
  • Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The endless updates about exciting events, luxurious vacations, and glamorous lifestyles can make your friend feel like they’re missing out on life. This FOMO (fear of missing out) can lead to feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and dissatisfaction with their own lives.
  • Cyberbullying: Unfortunately, social media can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. Even if your friend isn’t the target, witnessing it can still be hurtful and create anxiety. Cyberbullying can have a lasting impact on mental health, causing feelings of insecurity, embarrassment, and even depression.

Look for Signs: It’s not always easy to tell if your friend is struggling with a mental health challenge. However, some signs to watch for include:

  • Changes in mood or behavior (withdrawal, irritability)
  • Difficulty sleeping or eating 
  • Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or worthless 

Remember, you are not a mind reader! If you’re concerned about your friend, the best thing you can do is talk to them openly and supportively.

Walking Alongside Your Friend

How to support someone with mental health issues is all about being a friend and showing you care. Here are some ways to do that:

  • Listen without judgment: Let your friend know you’re there for them and willing to listen without judgment. Don’t try to fix their problems – just be a listening ear.
  • Validate their feelings: Let your friend know their feelings are valid. Statements like “That sounds really tough” or “It’s okay to feel that way” can be very comforting. 
  • Offer encouragement: Remind your friend of their strengths and positive qualities.
  • Be patient: Mental health challenges don’t disappear overnight. Be patient with your friend’s progress and celebrate small victories. 
  • Respect their boundaries: Some days your friend might just need space. Respect their need for privacy or alone time.

Remember: It’s also important to take care of yourself!  Supporting a friend can be emotionally draining. Make sure you schedule time for self-care activities that help you relax and recharge.

Sometimes, social media itself can become a trigger for your friend. Here are some ways to navigate those situations:

  • Talk about social media habits: Have an honest conversation with your friend about their social media use. See if there are any accounts or types of content that make them feel worse.
  • Take breaks together: Suggest taking breaks from social media together. There are even apps that can help you limit your screen time.
  • Curate positive feeds: Encourage your friend to follow accounts that inspire them or make them feel good. 

Remember: It’s their choice. Ultimately, it’s your friend’s decision how they want to use social media.

Offering Practical Help

How to support someone with mental health issues

Beyond emotional support, there are practical ways you can help your friend:

  • Help them find resources: If your friend is struggling, help them find resources like mental health hotlines, support groups, or therapists. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a free helpline (1-800-950-NAMI (6264)) and a searchable database of mental health professionals and support groups across the U.S. Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP (4357)) is another excellent resource for finding mental health treatment facilities.
  • Accompany them to appointments: Sometimes the act of going to a therapy appointment or support group meeting can be daunting. Offering to accompany your friend demonstrates your support and can make the process feel less intimidating.
  • Help with daily tasks: Mental health challenges can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. Offer to help with errands, chores, or other daily tasks that might feel overwhelming. 

Remember: Even small gestures can make a big difference.

The Takeaway

Social media can be a double-edged sword for mental health. By understanding the challenges and how to be a supportive friend, you can make a real difference in your friend’s life. Remember, you don’t have to be a superhero to be an awesome friend. Just by showing you care and offering support, you can be a powerful force for good.

Remember: You are not alone. There are many resources available to help you and your friend on your mental health journey.