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Helping Someone You Care About

When someone you care about is hurting, going through a hard time, or dealing with a mental illness, there are different ways you can help.

Listen Give them a safe place to share their feelings and experiences. Help them come up with a plan to get the help they need to get better.
Learn Learn about different mental health problems, including symptoms and treatments. This helps you understand what a person is going through and how you can help.
Don’t take it personally A person with mental illness may want to spend time alone or act out in anger. This can hurt other people’s feelings. These are symptoms of the illness—this isn’t about you.
Ask how you can help This may include simple day-to-day tasks like helping with cleaning or cooking. They may not want your help, even if you ask.
Get help for yourself Take care of yourself and get help if you need it.
Speak to a mental health professional Seek help for yourself and the person you care about. Mental health professionals are in every community and are trained to provide support and assistance. You can also call the Kamatsiaqtut Helpline or Kids Help Phone. If you live in Nunavik, click here.