What Not to Say to Someone Who’s Struggling with Mental Health Issues

Compassionate Communication Tips from Lyte Psychiatry – Best Adults and Adolescents Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You (Affordable Care in Dallas & Arlington, TX)

When someone you care about is struggling with their mental health, you want to help — but knowing what to say (and what not to say) can be difficult. Even well-intended comments can feel dismissive, invalidating, or hurtful to someone who is already vulnerable.

At Lyte Psychiatry, we help adults and adolescents in Dallas and Arlington, TX better understand mental health — not just through therapy and psychiatry, but also by teaching loved ones how to offer supportive, stigma-free communication.

Words matter. Here's how to avoid the most common conversational missteps — and what to say instead.

🚫 7 Things Not to Say to Someone with Mental Health Challenges

❌ 1. “Just get over it.”

This phrase implies that mental illness is a simple choice or a mindset problem — it’s not. Telling someone to “get over it” minimizes their experience and can make them feel ashamed.

✅ Try instead: “I can’t imagine how hard this is, but I’m here for you.”

❌ 2. “Other people have it worse.”

While intended to offer perspective, this statement often makes the person feel guilty or silenced.

✅ Try instead: “What you’re feeling is valid. You don’t have to compare your pain to anyone else’s.”

❌ 3. “You don’t seem depressed/anxious.”

Mental health symptoms aren’t always visible. Just because someone looks “fine” on the outside doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering internally.

✅ Try instead: “Thanks for trusting me with how you feel. I’m here if you want to talk more.”

❌ 4. “But you have so much to be grateful for!”

Gratitude and mental illness are not mutually exclusive. Someone can feel thankful for their life and still experience depression, anxiety, or trauma.

✅ Try instead: “I know you're going through something really tough. What can I do to support you?”

❌ 5. “You’re being dramatic.”

This kind of comment invalidates real emotional pain. It can increase feelings of isolation and discourage future honesty.

✅ Try instead: “It sounds like you’re overwhelmed. Do you want to talk more about what’s been going on?”

❌ 6. “Have you tried [exercise, meditation, etc.]?”

While lifestyle habits do help, unsolicited advice — especially early on — can come off as dismissive or overly simplistic.

✅ Try instead: “I’ve read that different things help different people. Would you be open to exploring options with someone who can help?”

❌ 7. “You’re just being negative.”

Negative thinking is often a symptom, not a choice. Criticizing someone for how they think can make them feel blamed for their own condition.

✅ Try instead: “I hear how heavy this feels for you. You're not alone.”

✅ How to Offer Genuine Support Instead

If you're unsure what to say, focus on listening and being present. You don’t need to have all the answers — just being a safe, nonjudgmental presence matters more than you think.

Here are a few phrases that communicate care:

🔹 “I’m glad you told me.”

🔹 “You don’t have to go through this alone.”

🔹 “It’s okay not to be okay.”

🔹 “I’m here to support you however I can.”

🔹 “Have you considered talking to a therapist? I can help you find someone.”

🧑‍⚕️ How Lyte Psychiatry Can Help

At Lyte Psychiatry, we specialize in evidence-based care for a wide range of mental health concerns — including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. We also work with families and caregivers to improve emotional communication and understanding.

Our Services Include:

✅ Adult and adolescent therapy

💊 Psychiatric evaluation and medication management

💻 In-person and virtual care

💰 Affordable, insurance-accepted services

Seek Professional Help Near You at Lyte Psychiatry (Affordable Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You) Located In Dallas & Arlington, TX

The way we talk to someone experiencing mental health challenges can have a profound and lasting impact. While most of us want to help, it’s easy to say things that, despite good intentions, may make someone feel invalidated, judged, or alone.

At Lyte Psychiatry, we believe that mental health care extends beyond therapy rooms and medication. It’s also about fostering understanding, building empathy, and creating healthier conversations between loved ones. Whether you're supporting a partner, child, friend, or colleague, your role matters — and with the right tools and mindset, you can be a critical part of their journey forward.

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Call us if you have questions at 469-733-0848

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What if I already said something hurtful — is it too late to fix it?

A: No. A simple apology like, “I’m sorry — I didn’t realize how that came across,” can go a long way in rebuilding trust.

Q: Should I avoid talking about their mental health?

A: Not at all. Just do it with care. Silence can feel like neglect — but thoughtful, respectful questions show that you care.

Q: Can I come with them to a therapy session?

A: Yes. If they’re open to it, a joint session can help you understand how to better support them.

Q: What if I’m overwhelmed too?

A: Supporting someone else is emotionally demanding. It’s okay — and important — to seek help for yourself as well.

Q: Does Lyte Psychiatry offer affordable options?

A: Yes. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible self-pay options to make care accessible for all families.