Tips for responding to trauma and mental health disclosures
Trauma and mental health issues are not necessarily more prevalent now, but the awareness about these issues is certainly growing. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 57 per cent of Canadians believe that the stigma associated with mental illness has been reduced compared to five years ago; and 81 per cent of Canadians are more aware of mental health issues compared to five years ago. In understanding these figures, we know that stigma is slowing decreasing in Canada, and therefore the prevalence of disclosures will likely increase as people feel safer with sharing their stories. People in our lives: friends, family, coworkers, etc. can be dealing with a trauma or mental illness at any time. In order to create the safe and supportive space necessary to receive a disclosure, here's some tips to prepare yourself with.
BODY LANGUAGE
Make eye contact, give this person your undivided attention.
Point your body towards them (focus on the feet) instead of appearing disinterested by facing another direction. Things like crossed arms can read negatively in another person.
Man-to-man, it's the best to stand beside them, instead of face-on.
If you don't know the trauma or source of the problem (especially if it's a stranger), avoid physical contact, regardless how tempting it can be to hold that person. For someone who has been through sexual trauma, physical touch can be a trigger if it comes from the wrong person.
WHAT TO SAY
"Thank you so much for sharing." This is something you should always say in response, especially if you're the first to receive this information. It can be an anxiety-inducing feeling to share your story for the first time, so thank them for choosing you.
"I'm here for you." This is an excellent choice for someone that you know, but may be an inappropriate response to someone you don't know, who you can't fulfill this commitment to.
"You are not alone." Many times people who are going through a trauma or mental illness can feel like they are the only one in the world going through it. Vulnerability can be a powerful tool, if you can offer someone a "me too" moment, it can be incredibly comforting and freeing for them (and you).
"Let me go with you." Again, this is something you can offer to someone you have a relationship with. Maybe going to their first group therapy meeting or counselling session is too difficult for them, you can offer physical support in certain cases.
"What can I do to help you?" We don't always know what we need from someone else, so being proactive with helping this person identify their needs, can be very helpful.
“How are you feeling about that?” Give this person an opportunity to put their emotions into words, this can help with processing and can also help you gauge where they are at.
“That must be so tough.” Validate their feelings by expressing your genuine response and recognition of how hard this must be for them. What can be triggering for many, is to respond in a 'silver lining' way, by saying things like "well, at least". Brene Brown has an excellent explanation of empathy responses in this short animated video.
“Have you thought about getting help?” While we cannot force someone to seek help, we can certainly help navigate them in the right direction.
Nothing. Sometimes just creating a safe space is all someone needs to hear. They obviously have something they need to get off their chest, being there to receive it can be very helpful.
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with trauma or mental illness, help is available. Contact us on Facebook to get access to resources in your area. If you're in Alberta, learn more about our Therapy Grant Program, which gives access to high-quality, trauma-specialized therapy for FREE.
— Written by Amber Craig (follow her on Twitter)