This is, at most, a universal feeling: we want what’s best for the people we value. If someone you care about is having a hard time, then you help them. Therapy is one of the options you can offer them, especially when they’re going through a mental health crisis. It helps them discuss their troubles and helps them find a way to overcome them.
But what if they refuse to undergo therapy?
Of course, there are better ways than forcing them, but you need to encourage them to have all the help they can get. Here are some ways to convince a loved one to get therapy.
Approach Them at The Right Time
One of the things you need to consider when bringing up a rather sensitive suggestion to someone is timing. There is always a perfect time to do or discuss certain things. It certainly would not be pleasant to bring up something upsetting to a joyous occasion or insist on something when one does not feel receptive.
With this, you need to look for the perfect timing when approaching the idea with your loved one. Ideally, you want to approach them when they’re in a more stable mood. If they are still in a terrible and emotionally unstable state, it might be best to help them recover for a bit.
Be Gentle
One of the best things you can show to someone troubled is to show them that you care. When you bring up therapy with your loved one, you must explain that getting professional help can assist with their situation. There are two ways you can go around this. You can convince them more gently or pragmatically, depending on the situation.
You may have to be gentle with your loved one in the following situations: if they are still in their terrible headspace or a bit sensitive (either in general or due to their situation). A touch of gentle kindness might be what you need to get them to listen. You can speak softly, reassure them you want what’s best for them, and convince them that therapy may help improve their well-being.
Be Pragmatic
Alternatively, you can pragmatically convince them if they need or can handle a little tough love. You can speak logically, stating the benefits of therapy or how other mental health interventions can make them feel better or at least make their situation bearable.
You could also give them a reality check, stating there needs to be a way to help them recover from their situation because they need to. This is especially true when your loved one needs to complete their studies, is in debt, or has dependents who need care. Let them realize that their situation affects people around them as well.
Remove the Stigma
One of the reasons your loved one may be refusing help is because they fear the stigma caused by seeking mental health help. There are several types of stigma that can discourage anyone from seeking therapy. If that is what you think is the problem for their refusal, you have to remove the stigma that they have.
Let them know that it’s alright to be open about having struggles with mental health and that seeking help allows them to overcome whatever struggle they have.
Offer to Provide Any Form of Help
Another reason a person refuses therapy is that they may not want to do it alone or cannot afford to do so. In that case, you have to offer the help that they need.
If they need emotional support, offer to be there. Help them look for a therapist, one they can afford. Expenses may vary, especially when your loved one also needs to seek other professionals like a psychiatrist, who could then prescribe them medication.
Should your loved one need medication, there are always ways to get them for cheaper, like couponing. A more modern and convenient couponing can be done through the internet, where you can get online coupons for the medication you can get in certain pharmacies. You can visit the site and get Buzzrx Prescription savings to learn more.
To Sum it Up
If you have someone who needs help with their mental health, you need to approach them with intentions of love and care. Suggest therapy in the most effective way possible, and give them time to think and decide. Support and respect their decision, and always offer to help them when they need it.
