Supporting a loved one's mental health

Have you noticed a change in a loved one or friend? Maybe they’ve seemed sad or irritable for a long period of time. Maybe they’ve withdrawn from social activities and things they used to love doing. Maybe they’ve had a dramatic change in their sleeping or eating habits. 

No matter the change, you can always reach out to Your Life Iowa to help get the needed support for your friend or family member's mental health . 

When helping those we care about, it’s important to care for your own mental health needs too. 

Mental health first aid

Mental Health First Aid is a course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders.

For adults

Mental Health First Aid teaches the signs and symptoms of mental health problems. The class covers how to recognize these signs and symptoms. The training offers how to provide initial help and guide a person toward treatment. This is an 8-hour course.

For children and adolescents

Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches how to respond in a mental health emergency to youth. They also help teach how to offer support to a young person who appears to be in emotional stress. 

Suicide prevention

You may be wondering how to help someone you care about who may be suicidal . 

This can be a frightening concern and people often wonder what they can do while worrying about doing the wrong thing. But you can save a life by asking a simple question, “Are you thinking about suicide?”

Perinatal depression

Perinatal depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. This condition can cause feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety and exhaustion.

For fathers & companions

As a husband or companion, you hold a unique and pivotal role in supporting new mothers. You are in a prime position to offer continual support, love and understanding. Your actions and words can impact a mother’s journey through postpartum depression. To help foster a loving environment for both mother and baby:

• Be supportive: Offer a listening ear and a comforting shoulder. Confirm her feelings without judgment. Remind her that help is available for mental health conditions.
• Assist with responsibilities: Assist with baby care and help with everyday tasks.
• Be patient: Understand that recovery may take time. Be patient and reassuring.
• Use words of affirmation: Reassure her often with loving words. Remind her that you love her, find her attractive and believe she is a great mother.
• Watch for warning signs of depression: If her condition worsens, seek immediate professional help.

For friends

As a friend of a new mother, your support and understanding are important. Checking in, talking with them, offering emotional support all make a difference. Your friendship can help create a nurturing relationship. To help her recovery and well-being during this challenging period: 

• Stay connected: Check in with them by phone, text, or email. Make arrangements to stop by.
• Be a good listener: Let her share her feelings without interruption or judgment.
• Offer encouragement: Remind her of her strength and resilience.
• Provide information: Share resources and information on PPD support.

Other resources

• If your family member or friend is in crisis, see our crisis services page .
• Learn about the wide range of services Community Mental Health Centers provide and find a nearby center .
• From education to connecting with treatment services and supports, Iowa’s Mental Health and Disability Services regions are here for you and your family. Get more information and find your region. 

Whether you want more information about adult mental health, would like to connect to a treatment professional or just want to talk to someone, we’re here for you. Call us, text us or chat with us online.