HOW TO LISTEN
THE FIRST STEP IS LISTENING WELL.
Listen to hear when someone is telling you something is wrong. Many of the signs that someone is struggling are found in the things he/she says.
Good listening skills are critical to being able to help someone experiencing a mental health disorder.
SEE ALSO: Reaching Out & Responding and Helping In Specific Situations
PHYSICAL ELEMENTS OF GOOD LISTENING
- Full undivided attention – no distractions
- Eye contact
- Facial expressions that mirror what is being said
- Relaxed and attentive body position
MENTAL ELEMENTS OF GOOD LISTENING
- Listening to understand
- Listening to gather information
- Listening with an open mind and heart
- Listening without judgment – not even to things that are scary, shocking, disgusting, disturbing, or alarming
- Listening without forming a response while someone is talking
- Listening patiently
THINGS TO ACHIEVE THROUGH GOOD LISTENING
- Creating trust
- Demonstrating respect
- Conveying sincerity
- Showing empathy
- Encouraging more sharing
- Displaying acceptance
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW FEEL(S) SUICIDAL, Go to the emergency room, call a mental health professional who can talk to you NOW, or call the police. IF YOU CALL THE POLICE, be sure to indicate that you need help with a mental health emergency, not a crime or criminal!
In the US, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988
FIND INTERNATIONAL HOTLINES
See Also: HELPING SOMEONE WHO IS SUICIDAL