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How can I support my partner’s mental health? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Supporting your partner's mental health can feel like a lot.
• 0:04
  SPEAKER_00: Many people worry about saying or doing the wrong thing, and that worry comes from caring.
• 0:09
  SPEAKER_00: Mental health difficulties can change your partner's mood, energy, and the way they connect with you, which affects the both of you.
• 0:15
  SPEAKER_00: So wanting to help is a good place to start.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now mental health affects everyone differently, so try asking about your partner's experience.
• 0:24
  SPEAKER_00: You could say what would help most right now or what has helped before, and when they open up, let them know you've heard them with something like I can hear how hard this is.
• 0:33
  SPEAKER_00: Because saying other things like you'll be fine can feel dismissive even when you mean well.
• 0:38
  SPEAKER_00: And you don't need to fix things or work out why they feel this way, as listening and staying alongside them is still real support.
• 0:46
  SPEAKER_00: And if your partner withdraws or seems low, notice whether your mind jumps to they're pulling away from me and just gently remind yourself that it may be the difficulty that they're going through.
• 0:57
  SPEAKER_00: As progress often has its ups and downs, so patience is quite helpful.
• 1:02
  SPEAKER_00: Now, a practical way to support yourself here might be to check in regularly and ask how you can best support them.
• 1:09
  SPEAKER_00: Talk together about what each of you need, including boundaries so you can help without wearing yourself out.
• 1:16
  SPEAKER_00: If they ask for space, then respect that.
• 1:18
  SPEAKER_00: And also keep doing ordinary things you enjoy together so the relationship has room beyond the difficulty.
• 1:24
  SPEAKER_00: And you can gently encourage them to seek professional support and offer to help find it or go along if they'd like that.
• 1:30
  SPEAKER_00: It's also important to look after yourself as well.
• 1:33
  SPEAKER_00: So keep your own routines, rest and time with your friends and family, and even tell a trusted friend how you are feeling, or consider a support group for partners.
• 1:42
  SPEAKER_00: And if your partner's difficulties continue or affect daily life, encourage them to speak to their GP who can talk through their options such as talking therapies.
• 1:50
  SPEAKER_00: You can also see your own GP or a counsellor about how you're coping.
• 1:54
  SPEAKER_00: And if you are ever worried about their immediate safety, it'd be best to contact your local emergency number or crisis line.
• 2:01
  SPEAKER_00: Now you can go back to the app's resources for further support around supporting a partner with their mental health.
• 2:06
  SPEAKER_00: If you're thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.