While mental illness remains pervasive to the human race, sometimes we say things that could be said in a better, less hurtful manner. I've dealt with mental health issues for my entire life and one thing I realized along the way was that how you say something to someone really makes an impact on the message you're trying to get across. Sometimes things come out sounding more hurtful than you intended them to, or less helpful even. So, with that being said, here's a list of the things you might say to someone with mental health issues, and how you should word them differently.
"Why are you so depressed?" = "Would you like to talk about it?
"Can we talk?" = "I'd like to talk to you, but I promise it isn't anything bad."
"You're still depressed?" = "It will get better, even if it doesn't seem like it."
"You have nothing to worry about." = "It's going to be okay, I'm here for you."
"My [insert name] has anxiety/depression too." = "You're not alone, I promise."
"You'll be fine." = "If you get uncomfortable, please let me know."
"You're just sad/tired." = "I'm sorry that you're dealing with this."
"Text me if you're anxious/depressed." = "My phone is always on if you need to talk."
"You were doing so good for a while." = "Slow progress is still progress."
"That sucks that you're anxious/depressed." = "I understand that this is a struggle for you."
"Are you anxious?" = "Would you like to go get some fresh air?"
"You should see a doctor." = "Have you considered medicine/therapy."
"Is it bad again?" = "Are you having a particularly rough time right now?"
"You know that I'm here for you." = "Please don't forget that I'll always be here for you."
"You good?" = "Are you okay? Is there anything I can do to help you right now?"
"Why don't you ever tell me when it's bad?" = "I'm here to listen if you'd like to talk."
"You need to clear your head." = "Maybe we can do something to help calm your mind."
"Stop thinking that way." = "I know it's hard, but try to remember that your anxiety/depression-driven thoughts aren't true."
"Just breathe." = "Let's take a deep breath together. In through your nose and out through your mouth."
"It's all in your head." = "I understand that your anxiety/depression isn't something you have a choice over."
"Lose some weight, it'll help." = "I understand that your anxiety/depression doesn't always feel controllable and that isn't your fault."
"You're stronger than this." = "Please remember that you are very strong, even on the hard days."
"You'll be anxious/depressed if you aren't sleeping/eating well." = "How have you been sleeping/eating?"
"I'm worried about you." = "You'll be in my thoughts. I'll be praying/sending good vibes that you'll feel better soon. I care a lot for you."
"Just stop thinking bad thoughts." = "How about we try to think of some happier thoughts. What is something that makes you happy?"
"You never go out anymore." = "If you'd like, you and I can make plans when the time comes that you're ready. If not, that's okay."
"You have nothing to be anxious/depressed about." = "I understand that your depression/anxiety is hard to deal with. I'm here for you."
"But there are people who love you!" = "I care about you and so do many other people. During the hard moments, try to remember that you are loved even if it doesn't feel that way."
Try [insert stupid activity/item that doesn't help anxiety/depression], it cures it!" = "I know it may not help, but if you'd ever like to try [activity/item] some time, I'd love to help you try it."
"Are you taking your meds?" = "How is it going with your medication?" [you'll get your answer and it isn't as invasive.]
"You're depressed/anxious because you [insert dumb activity] = I understand that your anxiety/depression isn't necessarily controlled by your actions and that you'll still be anxious/depressed even if you don't do that [activity]
