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How to Support a Loved One Who has Mental Illness

How to Support a Loved One Who has Mental Illness (1:08)

It's hard to know exactly what to do to help a loved one dealing with mental illness. In this video, Robin Miller, M.D. describes easy, realistic steps that will make a huge difference in the life of the person you want to help.

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[MUSIC] Hi, I'm Dr. Miller. If you have a family member or friend who struggles with mental illness, you may wonder how you can help. There are lots of ways you can offer meaningful support. First, just ask, how can I help. That alone can mean a lot to someone struggling with mental illness.

Let your loved one tell you about what support she needs but remember she may feel shy about asking for help. Here are more ways that you can offer support. Take some time to learn about the illness and treatment. Offer to drive her to and from medical appointments or pick up prescriptions.

Offer to attend appointments and take notes. Anyone can have a hard time remembering exactly what the doctor said. Offer to pick up groceries or make dinner one night a week. Offer to do laundry or cleaning, most of all only offers support that you know you can follow through on, and remember one person can't do everything, even if you truly want to.

So set healthy limits and don't forget to take care of yourself too. I'm Dr. Miller, for more ways to boost your family's well being, watch all of our smart tips.