Unhelpful Expressions to People in Crisis

I saw a post on LinkedIn the other day with a sign that said, "Things will get better." And the poster tagged mental health awareness.

I am sure that person meant well, and I know it can be awkward when dealing with someone fighting depression or some other mental struggle, but instead of awkwardly spitting out phrases to cheer them up or inspire them, we should probably just BE with them. Show them love and respect; no words necessary.

Remember perspective. We're not talking about someone's temporary mood, but instead someone who is struggling with trauma or other unhealed emotional responses. When we use some of these phrases, people may think we don't understand or are uncaring... some will be deeply hurt, which is mostly likely the opposite of what you wanted to accomplish.

So... no shaming here. This message is purely educational. When we understand mental health, it changes our perspective. Focus on simply loving the person, showing you care.

Avoid These Comments to People Who Are Struggling

• Stay positive or... You need to think positively.
• You're overthinking things.
• It will all get better.
• We all get depressed at times.
• Stop being so selfish.
• I know how you feel.
• So many people have it worse than you.
• You just need to snap out of It/get over it.
• Don't take yourself so seriously.
• Cheer up.
• Be strong.
• You don't seem that sad.
• You think you have it bad? Let me tell you...
• It's all in your head.
• This too shall pass.
• Try and rise above it.

Final Thoughts on Helping Loved Ones in Crisis

Best Advice: Instead of empty words and phrases, simply be with the person... and ask how you can help.

If the person is in a life-or-death crisis, please call 911 or 988 (mental health hotline).

Additional Resources on Helping Loved Ones in Crisis

• Five Ways to Heal Your Life!
• Best and Worst Things to Say to Someone Who is Depressed
• 11 Tips to Support Someone Struggling With Mental Health

Dr. Randall S. Hansen is an educator, author, and advocate, as well as founder and CEO of  EmpoweringSites.com, a network of empowering and transformative websites, including EmpoweringAdvice.com. Dr. Hansen’s latest book, Triumph Over Trauma, is available in paperback and ebook versions. Dr. Hansen has been helping empower people to achieving wellness and success his entire adult life. He is also founder of EmpoweringRetreat.com. He is a published author, with several books, chapters in books, and hundreds of articles. Dr. Hansen is also an educator, teaching business and marketing at the college level for more than 25 years. Learn more by visiting his personal Website, RandallSHansen.com.