Ok, I know I need to talk to my friend about psychosis, but what do I actually say?
Here are some useful phrases to help get the conversation started, and some things that you should never say:
Say: I’ve noticed that you haven’t been acting like yourself lately. I’m worried about you, is something going on?
Don’t Say: What’s wrong with you?
Say: How do you feel? What are you experiencing?
Don’t say: I know what you’re feeling right now.
Say: Can I help you find someone to see about your concerns?
Don’t say: Get help or you’re on your own.
Say: Do you want me to take you to the counseling center?
Don’t say: Treatment sounds scary. I’d be afraid to go there.
Say: I know you have a real illness, and that’s whats causing these very real thoughts and feelings.
Don’t say: It’s all in your head.
Say: I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care about you and want to help.
Don’t say: We all go though times like this.
Say: Tell me how you think I might be able to help you.
Don’t say: There’s nothing I can do, it’s all up to you.
Say: It might not feel like it now, but the way you’re feeling now can and will change.
Don’t say: Just snap out of it.
Say: There is help out there. Treatment works and I’m willing to support you in getting help.
Don’t say: If you just look on the bright side you could fix this yourself.