Ep. 153: How to Talk to Someone Who’s Struggling
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Our conversations about mental health have changed in the past few years. Things that were considered taboo or inappropriate to mention are now commonly discussed. And that’s great, because authentic conversations can help to reduce stigma. So when your coworker or close friend discloses that they’re having a tough time, how can you provide the response they need? What’s the best way to set boundaries? What do you do if you don’t have the time to talk? And how can you take care of yourself? Learn about things to say, do, and avoid to best show your support, from wellness host Dr. Peter Nord (above, right) and Medcan social worker Jennifer Baldachin (above, left).
LINKS
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, here are some resources to help:
Crisis Services Canada toll free number 24/7: 1 (833) 456-4566
Book a consultation with a Medcan psychologist or therapist: mentalwellbeing@medcan.com
Learn more about ways to process feelings after seeing an unexpected trauma like Buffalo Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin’s collapse in this American Psychological Association article.
Want to know how to create a culture of open and supportive communication around mental health in your workplace? Email mas@medcan.com to book a consultation and get personalized advice from Medcan’s MAS team.
Get a quick but thoughtful explanation of the difference between empathy and sympathy in this RSA Short: Brené Brown on Empathy
Among the employed, the proportion with a mental health-related disability increased 2.3 percentage points from 2019 (6.4%) to 2021 (8.7%), according to Statistics Canada. See more Statscan data on the increased prevalence of mental health-related workplace disability in Canada.
For more tips on how to take care of yourself through the winter, check out Medcan’s Cold Weather Wellness guide.
Learn more or sign up for a course with Mental Health First Aid Canada.
INSIGHTS
Why does Medcan social worker Jennifer Baldachin think it can be so tough to talk about our struggles? [3:28]
Dr. Nord creates a scenario: “Say I sit down for lunch with a coworker of mine, and they let me know that they’re really struggling right now.” Hear Baldachin’s suggestions on what to do next. [5:30]
What is the difference between empathy and sympathy, and what would each one look like in this situation? [8:50]
How can you show someone that you’re deeply listening, and interested in what they’re sharing? [10:07]
If someone is looking for advice, what’s the best way to provide it, according to Baldachin? [12:35]
If someone has asked for help, what’s the best way to offer it? What if they ask for something you can’t give? [14:24]
Baldachin suggests ways that you can let someone know you don’t have the capacity or time to talk right now, without seeming insensitive. [15:53]
After a talk with someone who’s been struggling, what sort of feelings might one experience? How can we best move on with our day after hearing something upsetting? [17:24]
Hear Baldachin’s tips for ways to create a culture of open and supportive communication around mental health. [21:27]
*LEGAL
This podcast episode is intended to provide general information about health and wellness only and is not designed, or intended to constitute, or be used as a substitute for, medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. You should always talk to your Medcan health care provider for individual medical advice, diagnosis and treatment, including your specific health and wellness needs.
The podcast is based on the information available at the time of preparation and is only accurate and current as of that date. Source information and recommendations are subject to change based on scientific evidence as it evolves over time. Medcan is not responsible for future changes or updates to the information and recommendations, and assumes no obligation to update based on future developments.
Reference to, or mention of, specific treatments or therapies, does not constitute or imply a recommendation or endorsement. The links provided within the associated document are to assist the reader with the specific information highlighted. Any third-party links are not endorsed by Medcan.