When our loved ones are experiencing a mental health crisis, whether that be a result of anxiety, depression, trauma, or disordered eating, the support system often is asked to step in and provide emotional, financial, and/or physical support. However, most individuals are not trained in how to effectively support loved ones in crisis.

Entering therapy for supporting your loved ones can provide you with the skills to emotionally and practically support your loved ones during difficult times.

In Emotion Focused-Family Therapy (EFFT), there is a heavy focus on emotions. You will learn how to identify the emotional states of others and yourself, better understand your own tendencies when faced with discomfort, and become a more effective and boundaried support person. EFFT supports healing family systems and creaing a more functional relationship dynamic.

Everyone shows that they need help in different ways; however, there are common signs that someone is struggling with mental health concerns. If your loved one appears to be experiencing any of the following signs, they may need more support.

Common Signs of Needing More Support:

• Struggling to handle the stressors of daily life

• Experiencing extreme tiredness or fatigue

• Decrease in attention to physical appearance or personal hygiene

• Having problems at work or school; declining performance at work or school

• Losing interest in activities or hobbies they once enjoyed

• Withdrawing from friends and family and spending more time on their own

• Unexpected and erratic mood swings

• Experiencing increased anxiety or agitation; behaving recklessly

• Increased use of substances or other numbing behaviors

• Experiencing hopelessness or helplessness

If you’re unsure about whether or not your loved one needs support, reach out for a free consultation and let us help you better understand what you are going through.

Having a loved one that needs support is one thing, but needing support of your own is a different matter entirely. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing burnout and caregiver fatigue.

Commons Signs of Caregiver Fatigue:

• Experiencing constant or enduring exhaustion or a difference in your energy level

• Seeing the bad in every situation and feeling more negative

• Experiencing a lack of motivation, low inspiration, and feeling unproductive

• You’re not taking care of yourself—mentally or physically.

• Feeling like you can’t set boundaries for your loved one and feeling unable to say no

If you’re feeling unsure about whether or not you may need more support, reach out for a free consultation and let us help you better understand what you are going through.