Do not ignore, disagree with or dismiss the person’s feelings by attempting to say something positive like, “You don’t seem that bad to me.”.Do not use a patronizing tone of voice or a facial expression that shows an extreme look of concern.Do not adopt an overinvolved or overprotective attitude.Don’t tell someone to “snap out of it” or to “get over it.”.A lot of people have reported similar signs and symptoms, and they have found help from a professional.” Here are a few tips for effectively communicating during this step: Show your concern by offering reassuring statements like, “Thank you for sharing your experience with me. Give the person time to think about what has been said or to express themselves.Use short and simple statements or questions.Do not try to finish the person’s sentences.Ask open-ended questions (“How are you feeling?”) rather than leading questions (“You’re feeling sad, aren’t you?”).Take the time to actively listen and understand what they’re saying.Ī few tips for listening nonjudgmentally from MHFA include: If the person is not in crisis, engage them in conversation. If the person says they are considering suicide, or you think they may be, it is a crisis and you should call 911. Signs of crisis include suicidal thoughts and behaviors, nonsuicidal self-injury and aggression. If someone appears to be exhibiting signs of mania or depression, approach them about your concerns. As a Mental Health First Aider, you do not diagnose or treat, however you can still use the MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) to #BeTheDifference to someone who seems to be struggling. Only a medical or mental health professional can diagnose bipolar disorder. experienced bipolar disorder in the past year, and it may account for 25% of all completed suicides. According to Mental Health First Aid, about 2.8% of adults in the U.S. These symptoms are often characterized by changes in sleep, energy level and the ability to think clearly.īipolar disorder is more prevalent than you may think. Bipolar I, for example, is marked by extreme mood swings and manic episodes that last at least a week, usually followed by a depressive episode lasting at least two weeks. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance identify five types – bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder, bipolar not otherwise specified (NOS) and rapid cycling. Bipolar disorder is a common mood disorder with distinct variations. You know that feeling when everything is going great, and suddenly you realize you’re 10 minutes late for an appointment, someone is rude to you or you drop everything you’re carrying? You know how that irritation can send you spiraling? We all experience mood swings and everyday ups and downs, but that’s not the same as a mood disorder.Īccording to the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) curriculum, mood disorders are characterized by the elevation or lowering of a person’s mood. By Mental Health First Aid USA on March 29, 2022
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