General Helping Skills for all Mental Health Problems
- Treat the person with respect, dignity and privacy.
- Be aware there may be shame felt by the sufferer.
- Demonstrate accepting / non-judgmental behaviour.
- Accept the person's "reality".
- Help to normalise the experience and reactions of the person.
- Encourage realistic thinking.
- Do not create confrontation.
- Encourage / assist person to seek professional help & to know what help is available.
- Encourage self help strategies - exercise, social contact (including support groups), stress management, relaxation, be wary of alcohol & marijuana (they can precipitate psychosis and reduce initiative & motivation).