Visiting Mental Health Facilities: The Do’s and Don’ts

Reading Time: 4 minutes

First published: 3 October 2022 @ 6:00 pm

3. Avoid Serious Issues

It is best that you do not talk about serious issues.

These are subjects such as personal relationships and problems, the death of a loved one, suicidal thoughts or plans, or other negative subjects.

These topics may disturb the patient’s current state of mind.

They are there for medical care. You may be seen as a potential problem, not as a potential solution.

When discussing personal matters, keep it simple and avoid tangents. The right words will help them feel better and decrease their negative feelings.

4. Don’t Force Them to Talk to You

Do not assume that the patient wants to speak to you or share their thoughts with you.

You should not assume that they are interested in talking to you unless they express this desire or give you a reason to believe that they want to talk to you.

Maintaining eye contact can also be difficult for them. This can lead to them being too afraid to speak.

Some patients will just say “I’m okay” or “I’m fine” when you ask if they are okay, even though they are not.

They may also not want to share their thoughts with you because of their fears about their current situation.

You can help them by not forcing them to talk to you and respecting their boundaries.

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.

5. Don’t Touch Them Without Permission

Do not touch the patient without their consent, as this may make them feel uncomfortable.

Be attentive to their facial expressions and body language. Use a calm tone of voice when speaking with the patient.

Listen to the patient and try to understand their needs.

This may include listening to what they have to say and following up with them compassionately.

It also means providing a way for them to communicate their needs if they cannot.

Click on the next page to learn the last and final tips!