May is Mental Health Awareness Month: How to Talk About Mental Health with Family and Friends

Home For Balance
12 minutes ago
4 min read

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma, and encouraging open conversations about mental health. Mental health affects every aspect of our lives, yet it can still feel difficult or uncomfortable to talk about it, especially with those closest to us. Whether you're seeking support or want to be there for someone else, knowing how to start the conversation is key.

In this post, we’ll explore why these conversations matter and share a few practical ways to talk about mental health with the people you love.

Why Talking About Mental Health Matters

Mental health conversations help normalize seeking support, reduce shame, and build stronger relationships. Just as we wouldn’t hesitate to check in with a loved one after a physical illness or surgery, we should feel just as comfortable talking about anxiety, depression, or emotional stress, especially if this is affecting their ability to connect and their physical health.

Opening up about mental health can:

Encourage early intervention and access to care
Strengthen connections and mutual trust
Help individuals feel seen, heard, and less alone
Know they matter

How to Start the Conversation

Whether you're initiating a conversation about your own mental health or checking in on someone else's, it’s okay to start small. Here are a few ways to begin:

1. Start with curiosity and care

If you're worried about someone:

“Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a bit off lately. How are you really doing?”
“I care about you and wanted to check in. How have you been feeling lately?”
“I’ve noticed that you’ve been eating less, and I’m worried about you. I care about your well-being and want to support you.”

If you’re the one opening up:

“I’ve been struggling with my mental health lately and could really use someone to talk to.”
“Can I share something with you that’s been on my mind?”

2. Choose the right time and setting

Look for a quiet moment when you won’t be rushed or interrupted—on a walk, over coffee, or during a car ride. A comfortable, non-judgmental space can make a big difference.

3. Use "I" statements and be honest

When sharing your own experience, focus on how you’re feeling rather than making assumptions:

“I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, and it’s been hard to manage it on my own. I'm thinking about reaching out to a therapist.”
“I’ve been dealing with anxiety, and I’m trying to learn healthier ways to cope.”

How to Support Someone Who Opens Up

When a friend or family member shares that they’re struggling, your response matters. Here’s how to be a supportive listener:

Listen without judgment: Let them talk without interrupting them, trying to “fix” the problem right away, or sharing immediately about your experience. Let them just talk.

Validate their feelings: You can say something like:

“That sounds really tough. I’m so sorry you’re going through this.” “It makes sense that you’re feeling this way.”
“Thank you for sharing this with me—I’m here for you.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone.”
“It’s okay to not be okay. I’m glad you told me.”

Ask how you can help: Everyone’s needs are different, so it’s important to ask rather than assume. Offering support in a way that respects their autonomy can make them feel safe and empowered.

“Is there anything I can do to support you right now?”
“Would it help if I just listened, or would you like advice?”
“Do you want company today, or would you prefer some space?”
“Can I help you find a therapist or someone to talk to?”
“Would it help if I checked in with you again tomorrow?”

Encourage professional help: If your loved one is open to it, gently suggest the value of speaking with a mental health professional. Emphasize that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

“Have you thought about talking to a therapist? I’d be happy to help you find one.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone—there are people who are trained to help.”
“It’s okay to ask for help. A therapist could really support you through this.”
“Would you like me to help you look at some options for support?”
“Talking to someone helped me, and it might help you too.”

Check in regularly!
A call and a simple “thinking of you” message can go a long way.

You’re Not Alone

Mental health struggles are incredibly common, and no one has to face them in silence. Whether it’s through therapy, support groups, open conversations, or simply knowing someone cares, healing begins with connection. This May, let’s commit to talking more openly about mental health. Your voice and compassion might be exactly what someone needs to hear.

At Home For Balance, we strongly believe in the power of connection for positive mental health. Our team of professionals specializes in different mental health concerns, and our personalized and holistic approach make us a great place to start your healing journey. For more information about our services, please contact us today at info@homeforbalance.com or 561.600.1424 for a FREE 30-minute consult!

Take a Step Toward Mental Wellness

If you're unsure where to start when it comes to mental health, taking a brief, confidential screening can help you better understand what you’re experiencing. These tools are not a diagnosis, but they can provide clarity and direction—and they’re a great first step toward seeking support if needed.

Here are a few trusted resources offering free mental health assessments:

🔗 Free Mental Health Screening Tools

Mental Health America (MHA) – Screening Tools Offers quick, confidential screenings for depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, addiction, and more.🌐 https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Online Eating Disorder Screening Tool Helps identify symptoms of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and other disordered eating patterns.🌐 https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/screening-tool

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Substance Use Screening Tool (NM-ASSIST) Assesses your risk level for substance use and whether further support may be needed.🌐 https://www.drugabuse.gov/nmassist/

Psychology Today – Self-Tests A wide range of self-assessments for mental health, relationships, personality, and overall emotional wellness.🌐 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/tests

Mind (UK) – Well-Being Self-Assessment Tool A general check-in on your current mental and emotional state.🌐 https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/wellbeing/wellbeing-self-assessment-tool/

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) – Anxiety and Depression Screeners Targeted tools to explore symptoms of anxiety disorders and depression.🌐 https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/screenings

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Symptoms and Conditions Guide Educational resource to better understand a variety of mental health conditions and when to seek support.🌐 https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Condition