Mental Health Etiquette

How do I respectfully interact with people with mental health difficulties?

Here are a few tips for respectfully interacting with people with mental health difficulties:

• Always interact with individuals based on your experience with that person, not on assumptions about mental illness or a particular diagnosis.
• Use clear and straightforward language.
• Do not rush the person, have patience and respect for what the person has to say. Stress can affect the person's ability to function so try to keep the pressure of the situation to a minimum.
• Check that the person understands you – just ask them.
• Some people with mental health difficulties may have difficulty coping with the tasks and interactions of daily life. This can sometimes interfere with their ability to feel, think or relate to others. If the person appears aloof or indifferent, do not take offence.
• In some cases, a person with a particular type of mental health difficulty may be uncomfortable making or receiving direct eye contact and can feel intimidated by it. They may prefer to be asked questions which require a short answer or a nod or shake of the head
• If a person becomes distressed, stay calm and be supportive as you would with anyone. Ask how you can help and find out if there is a support person who can be sent for. If appropriate, you might ask if the person has medication that he/she needs to take.
• When in doubt, always ask the person with the disability! The person with a disability is your best source of information.

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