In this episode, we talked about:
- The universal right to mental health care
- Understanding different types of mental health struggles
- How to approach a friend respectfully when you notice changes
- The importance of listening, presence, and support without judgment
- Preparing for the long-term nature of mental health recovery
Listen to the full episode now:
“Mental health struggles are legitimate, whether diagnosed or situational. You have the right to feel the way you feel.”
Timestamp:
0:00 intro
3:09 theme of the year: ‘mental health is a universal human right’
7:31 different severity of mental health struggles
10:26 how to help friends with mental health struggles
10:44 don’t be afraid to ask
12:46 don’t give advice, just be a good listener
15:44 stop questioning them!
17:31 you don’t need to talk about it
19:05 know that it is going to be a long and painful journey
21:16 there is going to be a lot of big, life-changing experiences
22:17 don’t take it personally when you’re not able to help
24:59 summary
26:22 outro
“Sometimes, being a friend doesn’t mean solving problems—it means being there, present, and patient.”
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- My SSRI (Antidepressants) Experience: https://youtu.be/DcFcTHIvCm0
- List of Malaysia Government and NGO Counselling Centres: https://www.lookp.com/blog/government-and-ngo-counselling-centres
- Find a Helpline near you: https://findahelpline.com/
Detailed Summary:
Introduction
In this episode of Small Girl Big Talk, Wendy opens up about mental health and shares advice on how to support friends who might be struggling. Drawing from her own experiences with depression and PTSD, she emphasizes that while she is not a professional, personal insight and empathy can go a long way in helping others feel seen and supported.
Mental Health as a Universal Human Right
Wendy highlights the theme of World Mental Health Day 2023: “Mental health is a universal human right.” She discusses key messages from the World Health Organization:
- Challenge the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health.
- Everyone should have access to quality mental healthcare.
- Community mental health services and support systems are crucial for personal and societal growth.
Wendy stresses that mental health struggles are legitimate, whether diagnosed or situational, and everyone deserves compassion and support.
Understanding Different Mental Health Struggles
Mental health exists on a spectrum. Wendy explains:
- Common struggles: stress, anxiety, depression.
- Situational struggles: postpartum depression, PTSD, chronic illness-related challenges.
- Disorders: bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, ADHD, and others.
She emphasizes that her advice primarily applies to those experiencing struggles similar to hers (depression, PTSD, anxiety), and for more severe cases, professional support is recommended.
How to Help Friends with Mental Health Struggles
- Create a Safe Space – Invite them to a private, comfortable setting where they feel secure to share. If they are defensive or egoistic, consider starting the conversation over text.
- Be Honest and Observant – Start the conversation by gently sharing what you’ve noticed: changes in mood, energy, or behavior. Emphasize that your concern comes from care, not judgment.
- Master the Art of Listening – Often, friends are not seeking solutions—they just want to be heard. Avoid offering unsolicited advice; instead, ask questions that encourage them to share: “How do you feel?” “Why do you think you’re having these thoughts?”
- Offer Support Without Pressure – Help them find resources if needed (counselors, therapists, doctors), accompany them to appointments, or simply engage in normal, enjoyable activities like watching a movie or going for a coffee.
- Respect Their Boundaries – Don’t force them to share or explain thoughts and emotions they’re not ready to articulate. Sometimes, being present without discussing mental health is the most valuable support.
- Understand the Long-Term Nature – Mental health struggles are often ongoing. Support can be emotionally taxing, and friends may have periods of improvement or setbacks.
- Do Not Take Things Personally – Friends may make decisions like distancing themselves or changing relationships as part of coping. Focus on maintaining empathy without internalizing guilt.
- Prioritize Your Own Mental Health – Supporting someone struggling can be draining. Protect your well-being first to be able to show up effectively.
Conclusion
Wendy encourages listeners to approach friends with empathy and patience, recognizing that mental health recovery is a long journey. The episode offers guidance on being present, listening, and supporting loved ones without judgment, while also taking care of oneself.
