by Bianka Hardin, PsyD
Starting a conversation with a loved one about your concerns and going to therapy can seem tricky. But bringing up you concern can be done in simple, non-threatening ways.
- When you have the conversation, choose a place that is private with limited distractions.
- Tell them you care about them.
- Express your concern in a considerate and non-judgmental manner.
- Ask them if they have concerns about how they have been feeling.
- Be specific and note the behaviors that have changed. For example, “I have noticed that you are not sleeping at night and you seem tired most of the time” or “You seem overwhelmed. I have noticed that are you often crying or tearful and have expressed that you feel stressed out.”
- Normalize the process of going to therapy by talking about your own positive experience in therapy if you have been in therapy before.
- Empower your loved one by talking about going to therapy as a positive action they can take that is within their control.
- If you feel overwhelmed by being your loved one’s primary support, be sure to engage in your own self-care by getting support from others or seeking therapy for yourself.
- If your loved one refuses to seek assistance, let them know that that is their choice and that you care about them.
- Remember that having a conversation about this can plant a seed. Your friend or loved one may be more open at a later time.
CTC is happy to help you with identifying the right resources and providing referrals. Feel free to call us to consult about your particular situation. We have a wide range of resources within our practice and are networked with other practitioners across Chicago.