How to manage family problems and cope with your deteriorating mental health?

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Neelam Mishra, Senior Rehabilitation Psychologist and Consultant at LISSUN, outlined key practices to effectively manage family issues and create a harmonious environment for mental well-being;

• Identify sources of tension. Start by identifying family members who may be negatively affecting your mental health. It is important to recognize those who provide minimal support or create additional stress. Identifying the source of your anxiety is the first step to solving it.
• Avoid stressful situations. If possible, avoid situations, gatherings, or discussions that cause stress and anxiety. If a certain family event or topic consistently gets you down, it’s okay to forgive yourself or set boundaries to protect your mental health.
• Conflict settlement. Learn healthy conflict resolution skills. This includes active listening, empathy and finding mutually agreed solutions. Effective conflict resolution can lead to more harmonious family relationships.
• Prioritize self-care. Self-care is critical to maintaining mental well-being. Engage in activities that help you relax and rejuvenate. Listen to soothing music, have heartfelt conversations with loved ones, declutter your living space, and engage in calming practices like taking a salt bath with scented candles.
• Read uplifting material. Develop a reading habit, but choose content that inspires and relaxes you. Choose motivational books, fiction, or any literature that will take your mind off your family problems. Reading can be a powerful escape and source of mental relaxation.
• Stay connected with friends. Social support is invaluable. Make an effort to meet up with friends at least once a week or stay in touch through calls and texts. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with friends can provide a fresh perspective and emotional relief.
• Write your thoughts. Consider keeping a journal to express your feelings, thoughts, and experiences. Journaling is a therapeutic way to process your emotions and gain clarity about your family challenges. It can also serve as a record of your progress
• Seeking expert help. Sometimes family problems may require the help of a mental health professional or family therapist. Don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. Therapy can provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating complex family dynamics.

Acknowledging that managing family issues and deteriorating mental health can be difficult, Dr. Himani Narula, director of developmental and behavioral pediatrics and co-founder of Continua kids, said: Feelings of warmth and warmth can prevent family members from receiving emotional support and also find it difficult to express their feelings, which can cause mental health problems. Family stressors can vary from family to family, but the most common stressors include financial problems, child-parent problems, and marital discord.”

He emphasized. “Also, mental illness can cause stress by disrupting normal functioning. If you’re experiencing worsening mental health, it’s important to see a mental health professional, such as a developmental pediatrician, adolescent mental health specialist, psychologist, counselor, or psychiatrist. They can provide you with the necessary guidance, support and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Honest and open communication with family and therapist is essential when dealing with family issues.”

Dr. Himani Narula advised. “Expressing your feelings in the right way and listening to others’ points of view with an open mind is important. Set healthy boundaries to protect your mental health. Communicate your boundaries clearly to family members and be assertive when necessary. Prioritize self-care practices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or meditation. Practice mindfulness techniques to manage stress and stay grounded. Deep breathing exercises, meditation and yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity.”

He added: “Organize your time effectively to balance family issues and self-care. Learn coping strategies from a mental health professional. If your mental health worsens enough to require medication, see a psychiatrist. Medication, when used in conjunction with therapy, can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. Finally, it’s important to know that everyone’s situation is unique, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed, as mental health issues and family conflicts can have serious consequences if left untreated.”

Bringing the same experience, Dr. Austin Fernandez, Psychiatrist, B. These challenges often take a toll on our mental health, leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. It is critical to understand these challenges and implement strategies that will help you cope with such family issues and prioritize and protect your mental well-being.” He suggested.

• Open communication. The key to resolving family conflicts is effective communication. Create a safe space where everyone can voice their opinions and concerns that is safe and non-judgmental. Listen carefully to everyone’s suggestions and understand them deeply, encouraging harmony within the family by actively and compassionately listening to each member.
• Set boundaries. Having clear boundaries is critical to successful relationships and connections. Be firm in expressing your demands and limitations with others. This ensures that everyone’s thoughts and opinions are valued and acknowledged.
• Seek professional support. If family problems are becoming too difficult to handle alone, consider seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor. Professional help can help provide you with valuable tools and coping processes to navigate difficult situations.
• Self-help practice. Prioritize your self-care to support your mental health. Engage in joyful and relaxing activities such as exercise, meditation, reading, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself enables you to support your family and overcome challenges with strong mental strength.
• Avoid blaming and judging. Focus on the root causes of family conflict instead of the blame game. Handle conflicts with compassion and seek outcomes that benefit all parties. Avoiding judgment can encourage a more peaceful atmosphere.
• Set realistic expectations. Always remember that not all family conflicts can be resolved immediately. be patient with the process and set realistic expectations for your progress. Strong, healthy family ties and Rome were not both built in a day.
• Look for positive outcomes. Engage in positive activities to improve your life. Engage in creative activities, socialize yourself, or pursue your hobbies. This approach actually supports you emotionally and can be helpful in managing stress.
• Learn when to seek professional help. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if your mental health continues to deteriorate. Professionals such as therapists and counselors are equipped to provide you with the support and guidance you may need.

It involves effort, patience and self-compassion while maintaining a delicate balance between family issues and mental health. You can overcome this by practicing open communication, setting boundaries, seeking support and practicing self-care, you can easily overcome these obstacles with grace and resilience. Always remember that seeking professional help is a sign of strength and courage, and your well-being is worth prioritizing.