How should you acknowledge someone's feelings during a mental health crisis?

Acknowledging someone's feelings during a mental health crisis is essential for providing effective support. Responding without judgment and through supportive listening allows the individual to feel heard and validated. This approach creates a safe environment where they can express their emotions openly, fostering a sense of trust. By actively listening, you show empathy and understanding, which can help alleviate their distress and encourage them to share more about what they’re experiencing.

Dismissing their beliefs, judging or criticizing their feelings, or offering quick solutions can be damaging. These actions may make the person feel invalidated, isolated, or pressured, which can exacerbate their crisis instead of helping them. Therefore, the most constructive and compassionate response is to engage in supportive listening and acknowledge their emotions without passing judgment.