How to Help Family Members or Friends with Mental Illness from Udemy

Hi Everyone. If you're here looking for my courses, I've had to move them to another platform due to some changes that Udemy has made. They're still the same great courses, but on a different platform. (They're cheaper too) Check them out at courses.therapynutshell. com

Someone you care about struggles with depression, anxiety or other mental illness and you want to know how to help.

Mental Illness is common, at least 35% of people experience mental illness during their lifetime, and some estimate that as many as 55% of people have a bout with it once during their lives. That means that as long as you know at least 3 people, odds are good that you know someone with a mental illness.

This course is packed with information for family and friends of someone with depression, anxiety, or other mental illness. It's got 5 hours of education in 55 short videos so you can know what to do to help them.

You’re taking this course because someone in your family or one of your close friends is experiencing depression, anxiety or another mental illness. They need help, and you want to know how to be helpful to them. You’re taking this course because you care about them.

Because you worry about them. Perhaps you’re afraid for their safety or their success.

You’re taking this course, because you-like your friend with a mental illness- don’t know what to do next to help.

In this course I’m going to teach you how to become an influential and positive source of support for your loved one. I’m going to teach you the changes you can make to be a more effective helper.

How to build a Relationship of influence
Boundaries
Self-care
How to listen so they’ll open up to you, (Empathic and Reflective Listening Skills)
32 Ways to help even if they don't want to talk
Stuff to say and Stuff not to Say
How to help them access resources
How to ask good questions
What to do if they won’t get help
Explore relationship dynamics that my be impeding the healing process
And 15 videos dealing with advanced topics like suicide prevention, recognizing dysfunctional roles, managing attention seeking behaviors and self harm, and so much more.

Your relationship with the person you care about is the most influential factor for change that exists. You have the ability to make a big difference in the lives of others, So Let’s get started learning how to help.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Learn how to support your loved one with mental illness in a positive and helpful way
Parenting skills for a child with mental illness
Create a healthy relationship where you can influence them positively
Become a great listener so they'll open up to you
Know what to do if your loved one won't talk, won't get help, or is suicidal
Learn alternatives to traditional treatment so that they have multiple "tools" to help your loved one
Better understand relationship dynamics so you can improve your role in the system.

Boundaries
Self-care
How to help them access resources
Advanced topics like suicide prevention, recognizing dysfunctional roles, managing attention seeking behaviors and self harm, and so much more
Show more
Show less

Learn how to support your loved one with mental illness in a positive and helpful way
Parenting skills for a child with mental illness
Create a healthy relationship where you can influence them positively
Become a great listener so they'll open up to you
Know what to do if your loved one won't talk, won't get help, or is suicidal
Learn alternatives to traditional treatment so that they have multiple "tools" to help your loved one
Better understand relationship dynamics so you can improve your role in the system.
Boundaries
Self-care
How to help them access resources
Advanced topics like suicide prevention, recognizing dysfunctional roles, managing attention seeking behaviors and self harm, and so much more
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Understand the importance of working with their personal medical provider for personal treatment information

Disclaimer

Introduction

Mental Illness is Common and Treatable

This is a video from my "Change your Brain" Course on Udemy, it describes the difference between mental health diagnoses and most physical diagnoses.

If we want help others, we have to be an emotionally safe place for them. I made this video for my YouTube Channel (Therapy in a Nutshell) on Emotional Safety, and I’m going to share it here-so click on the next video to learn about how to be an emotionally safe person.

Another video from my YouTube Channel (Therapy in a Nutshell) on the skill of Listening Empathically.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides practical strategies for building supportive relationships, including empathic listening and setting healthy boundaries, which are essential for positive interactions

Explores relationship dynamics that may hinder healing, offering insights into improving one's role in supporting a loved one's mental health journey

Addresses advanced topics such as suicide prevention, self-harm, and attention-seeking behaviors, equipping helpers with tools to navigate complex situations

Includes guidance on accessing resources and understanding different stages of change, which can empower helpers to provide tailored support

Emphasizes the importance of self-care for the helper, acknowledging the emotional toll of supporting someone with mental illness and promoting sustainable support

Discusses the importance of working with the individual's medical provider for treatment information, which is crucial for providing informed support

Reviews summary

Support loved ones with mental illness

According to learners, this course is a highly valuable and practical resource for anyone supporting family or friends with mental health challenges. Students praise the clear explanations and the compassionate approach of the instructor. The course provides actionable strategies and practical tools, such as empathic listening skills, setting healthy boundaries, and knowing what to say or avoid saying. Many found the emphasis on self-care for the helper particularly important and often overlooked. While some felt parts were more foundational, the majority found it an excellent starting point and felt better equipped to offer support.

Excellent starting point for understanding.

"Some parts felt a little basic, especially if you already have some background knowledge, but overall a solid foundation."

"Great starting point."

"This course gave me the foundation I needed to approach my sibling's situation with more understanding and less fear."

Easy to follow with concise modules.

"A deeply compassionate and informative course... Dr. [Instructor Name] explains complex topics clearly."

"Some parts felt a little basic... but overall a solid foundation. The short video format is convenient."

"Very informative and well-structured. Covers a lot of ground... The videos are concise, making it easy to digest."

"This course was easy to understand and broken down into digestible chunks. The short videos were perfect."

Highlights the helper's well-being.

"...I feel much better equipped to support her and take care of myself too."

"The focus on self-care is essential and often overlooked."

"I particularly appreciated the emphasis on taking care of myself – it's made a huge difference."

"The self-care aspect was a crucial reminder. The content is delivered with empathy and expertise."

"I learned how important it is to take care of my own needs while helping my loved one."

Instructor is knowledgeable and empathetic.

"The instructor's tone is so calming and knowledgeable. I feel much better equipped to support her and take care of myself too. Highly recommended..."

"Dr. [Instructor Name] explains complex topics clearly. Worth every penny."

"The instructor is excellent. I've already started using these techniques and seeing positive changes."

"The content is delivered with empathy and expertise."

"The instructor's approach is gentle and empowering. It really helps you understand your role and how to be a positive influence."

Offers actionable techniques for real life.

"This course is incredibly helpful and practical. The sections on empathetic listening and setting boundaries were game-changers for how I interact..."

"I learned so much about understanding mental illness... The practical tips like 'stuff to say/not to say' and accessing resources were useful."

"I was feeling lost and overwhelmed... This course provided clear, actionable steps and gave me hope. The segment on suicide prevention was handled with sensitivity..."

"Fantastic course! The listening skills module alone was worth it. It's not just theoretical; it teaches you *how* to actually implement these strategies..."

"The practical tips and communication strategies are incredibly helpful. The instructor's approach is gentle and empowering."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Help Family Members or Friends with Mental Illness with these activities:

Review Common Mental Health Diagnoses

Show steps

Familiarize yourself with common mental health diagnoses to better understand the challenges your loved one may be facing. This will help you approach the course with a foundational understanding.

Browse courses on Depression

Show steps

Research common mental health diagnoses using reputable sources like the Mayo Clinic or the National Institute of Mental Health.
Take notes on the symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and common treatments for each disorder.

Review 'I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help!'

Show steps

Learn practical strategies for helping loved ones who may not recognize their need for help. This book provides valuable insights into anosognosia and communication techniques.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Read the book 'I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help!' by Xavier Amador.
Identify key communication strategies and techniques for building trust.
Reflect on how these strategies can be applied to your specific situation.

Create a Self-Care Plan

Show steps

Develop a personalized self-care plan to manage your own well-being while supporting your loved one. This will help you avoid burnout and maintain a healthy perspective.

Show steps

Identify activities that promote your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Schedule time for these activities in your daily or weekly routine.
Track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Three other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all six activities

Practice Reflective Listening

Show steps

Improve your reflective listening skills to better understand and validate your loved one's feelings. This will foster a stronger connection and encourage open communication.

Show steps

Find a friend or family member willing to practice active listening with you.
Take turns sharing your thoughts and feelings, focusing on reflecting back what you hear.
Ask for feedback on your listening skills and identify areas for improvement.

Review 'The High-Conflict Couple'

Show steps

Learn techniques for managing conflict and improving communication in challenging relationships. This book offers insights into emotional regulation and validation.

View The High-Conflict Couple: Dialectical Behavior... on Amazon

Show steps

Read 'The High-Conflict Couple' by Alan E. Fruzzetti.
Identify key DBT techniques for managing conflict and improving communication.
Practice applying these techniques in your interactions with your loved one.

Create a Resource Guide

Show steps

Compile a list of local and national resources for mental health support, including therapists, support groups, and crisis hotlines. This will empower you to help your loved one access the care they need.

Show steps

Research local and national mental health resources.
Compile a list of resources with contact information and descriptions of services.
Share the resource guide with your loved one and other family members.

Career center

Learners who complete How to Help Family Members or Friends with Mental Illness will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mental Health Advocate

A Mental Health Advocate champions the rights and needs of individuals facing mental health challenges; this includes educating the public, lobbying for better policies, and providing direct support. This course helps you develop a deep understanding of mental illnesses and how they affect individuals and relationships. Learning how to build relationships of influence, set boundaries, and practice self-care equips you with the tools to effectively advocate for others. Understanding relationship dynamics, active listening, and knowing how to help loved ones access resources are crucial for making a real difference as a Mental Health Advocate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mental Health Advocate

Behavioral Health Specialist

Behavioral Health Specialists provide assessment, intervention, and support services to individuals with behavioral and mental health issues. This course helps you develop a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to mental illness and the challenges individuals face in seeking help. The curriculum on building relationships of influence, understanding relationship dynamics, and applying effective communication techniques is incredibly relevant. Furthermore, the skills taught on setting boundaries and self-care ensures you can provide sustainable support.

See salaries and explore the career path for Behavioral Health Specialist

Mental Health Counselor

Mental Health Counselors provide therapeutic support to individuals and groups experiencing mental health challenges, often requiring a master's degree. This course helps you better understand the systemic effects of mental health challenges. The material on building relationships of influence, setting boundaries, and becoming a better listener can help you connect more fully with clients and their families. Moreover, the material on relationship dynamics, self-care, and suicide prevention is a solid foundation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mental Health Counselor

Rehabilitation Counselor

Rehabilitation Counselors assist individuals with disabilities, including mental health conditions, in achieving their personal and professional goals, often requiring a master's degree. This course helps you understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and how to support their recovery journey. Specifically, the modules on building relationships of influence, fostering open communication, and helping people access resources are directly applicable. You will come away understanding relationship dynamics and ways to help clients overcome obstacles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Rehabilitation Counselor

Community Outreach Worker

Community Outreach Workers connect individuals with mental health conditions to resources and support services within their community. This course provides a practical understanding of mental illness and equips you with the skills to effectively engage with individuals and families in need. Learning to build relationships of influence, extending a helping hand, and understanding relationship dynamics is invaluable for connecting with people who may be hesitant to seek help. The course also offers tangible advice on what to say and how to help, even when someone is resistant.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Outreach Worker

Social Worker

Social Workers support individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including mental illness, often requiring a master's degree. This course helps you develop a nuanced understanding of how mental illness impacts individuals and their support networks. You explore methods for building relationships of influence, setting boundaries, and helping people access the resources they need. The course's focus on relationship dynamics, active listening, and problem-solving skills is valuable in providing effective support as a Social Worker.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Youth Worker

Youth Workers support young people's personal, social, and educational development, often encountering mental health challenges. This course helps you develop the skills to build supportive relationships with young people and guide them toward positive change. Modules on empathic listening, extending a helping hand, and helping them access resources are valuable for a Youth Worker. Understanding relationship dynamics helps you tailor your approach to meet their needs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Youth Worker

Case Manager

Case Managers coordinate and oversee the services provided to individuals with mental health conditions, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. This course can help you understand the complex needs of individuals with mental illness and how to navigate the resources available to them. Learning to build relationships of influence, help people access resources, and understand relationship dynamics allows the Case Manager to more fully support those in need. The material on listening skills and what to say may be helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Case Manager

Guidance Counselor

Guidance Counselors provide academic, emotional, and social support to students, often dealing with mental health concerns. This course helps you develop a better understanding of mental illness and its impact on individuals. Learning how to build relationships of influence, listen empathetically, and help students access resources is invaluable in a school setting. Additionally, the course's material on boundaries and self-care helps you maintain well-being while supporting students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Guidance Counselor

Employee Assistance Program Counselor

An Employee Assistance Program Counselor provides confidential assessment, counseling, and referral services to employees experiencing personal or work-related problems, including mental health issues. This course may be useful for you given that it explores changes one can make to improve their relationships. The course also aims to resolve frustration and irritation towards another person and develop a lasting source of influence. The understanding of relationship dynamics and listening skills may be helpful in serving employees.

See salaries and explore the career path for Employee Assistance Program Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors help individuals overcome addiction, which often co-occurs with mental health disorders, often requiring a master's degree. This course may be useful in understanding the systemic effects of mental health issues on family and friends. The sections on building relationships of influence, fostering open communication, and recognizing dysfunctional roles can aid in supporting individuals and their families through recovery. Understanding underlying relational issues may help the Substance Abuse Counselor holistically address addiction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Substance Abuse Counselor

Corrections Officer

Corrections Officers maintain order and security in correctional facilities, where many inmates experience mental health issues. The course may be useful in understanding how to deescalate situations by developing relationships of influence, setting boundaries, and communicating effectively. The material on understanding dysfunctional roles and managing attention-seeking behaviors may be helpful in maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Corrections Officer

Therapist

Therapists help people work through mental and emotional issues by providing support and guidance, often requiring a master's degree. This course may be useful in understanding the experiences of family members and friends of those with mental illness. This course provides insights into the challenges these individuals face and arms you with tools to build influence, create healthy relationships, and help those in need to access resources. The material on relationship dynamics, boundaries, and self-care may be useful in understanding the client as part of a broader system.

See salaries and explore the career path for Therapist

Life Coach

Life Coaches provide guidance and support to help individuals achieve their personal and professional goals; this may sometimes involve addressing underlying mental health concerns. This course may be useful in helping clients achieve their goals by improving their relationships. You can explore how to build relationships of influence, improve listening skills, and help people access resources. Applying the course materials on helping clients see more clearly, developing new intimacy, and addressing problematic attention seeking may lead to important breakthroughs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Life Coach

Psychiatric Technician

Psychiatric Technicians work under the supervision of psychiatrists or other mental health professionals to provide direct care and support to patients. This course may be useful for technicians to better understand the experiences and challenges of family members or friends of those they treat. The course's content on understanding relationship dynamics, setting boundaries, and fostering open communication may improve their interactions with patients and their families. This course also provides insight into the importance of self-care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychiatric Technician

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to Help Family Members or Friends with Mental Illness.

The High-Conflict Couple

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Provides tools and techniques based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to manage conflict in relationships. While not solely focused on mental illness, it offers valuable strategies for improving communication and reducing emotional reactivity, which can be particularly helpful when supporting someone with a mental health condition. This book is useful for understanding and navigating difficult relationship dynamics.

The High-Conflict Couple: Dialectical Behavior...

Paperback

How to Help Family Members or Friends with Mental Illness

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Support loved ones with mental illness

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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