At times, this may mean consciously addressing your biases. For example, you may find self-harming behavior to be upsetting. However, chiding a patient or showing disgust can set them back. Instead, treat their wounds and help them engage in their treatment protocols.

Treating them equally is not only the right thing to do, it can also aid in their treatment process. Eventually, it may make them cooperate better, as well.

Do not stare down at patients, as this may come across as demeaning to them. [4] X Research source

Straighten your back and maintain good posture. Let your arms hang at your side. When holding something, try not to block your body with it. Don’t cross your arms. Keep your facial expression neutral or, preferably, give a friendly smile. [6] X Research source

You could say, “I’m noticing that you look upset. Can I sit with you and talk?”

Show the patient that you are listening by nodding and giving affirmative responses. Summarize what they are saying to you, so that they know you understand them correctly.

Try to validate the person’s feelings. Show the person that even though you might not be experiencing the same exact thing they are, you can understand why it would be causing them distress, and let them know that feeling is okay. That can make them more likely to put down their defenses and tell you more about what’s going on. [10] X Research source Padam Bhatia, MD. Psychiatrist. Personal interview. 12 May 2020. For instance, you could say, “That sounds really stressful,” or “I can understand why you’re so upset. ”

When you’re creating a treatment plan, take the patient’s desires into account when it’s appropriate. For instance, your patient might prefer therapy over medication, they might only want medication, or they might like to try a combination of the two. [12] X Research source Padam Bhatia, MD. Psychiatrist. Personal interview. 12 May 2020. You could say, “It sounds like you don’t want to go to group today. It’s important for your treatment plan that you participate. If you don’t want to go to this session, you can go to the afternoon session or I can schedule you a private session to discuss your treatment plan. ”

Dependent: A person that feels dependent on others will expect help and possibly even a full recovery. They will often be compliant, but may not take action on their own. Histrionic: A person who has a histrionic personality may be more dramatic in how they present themselves. They may exaggerate their symptoms to seek attention. Antisocial: These patients may resist treatment and display disdain for their medical team. Paranoid: Paranoid patients may resist treatment because they don’t trust the doctor or doubt what they’re being told.

When a patient feels like they can trust their mental health providers, they’re more likely to have a successful outcome from treatment. [15] X Research source Padam Bhatia, MD. Psychiatrist. Personal interview. 12 May 2020. An exception to this is that if the patient’s treatment plan suggests following along with a delusion they’re having, you should lie when appropriate to avoid questioning the delusion.

Additionally, good documentation protects you and other staff in the event of a malpractice claim. [17] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Invite them to a special family therapy session. If allowed, show them the patient’s treatment plan.

In an emergency situation, such as when the patient or someone else is at risk, you may not have time to consult their treatment plan.

This works better for patients who are overwhelmed.

Say, “I can tell you’re upset. Tell me what I can do to help you feel better. ” Don’t say, “There’s no reason to be angry. ”

Avoid statements like “If you don’t stop yelling, I’m going to call the police” or “You’re about to add two more weeks to your stay here. ” Instead, you could say, “I can tell you’re angry, and I want to help you resolve those feelings. I’m here to help you. ”

Most often, these medications will consist of antipsychotics or benzodiazepines. [25] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

It’s dangerous to restrain a person who is acting out, so be careful.

You can find resources online, in your local library, or in your local bookstore.

Talk to their doctor and/or social worker, when appropriate. Tell your loved one that you’d like to help with their treatment plan, if they feel comfortable. You could say, “I love you and want you to feel better. If you feel comfortable, I’m happy to read over your treatment plan and help in any way I can. ”[28] X Research source

For example, “I feel threatened when you throw things in frustration. I would feel safer if you worked with your therapist to reduce those urges. ” Don’t say, “You always throw stuff and scare me! You need to stop!”

Ask the doctor or treatment facility for a recommendation. Call local mental health centers to look for groups, or search online. For example, you may be able to join a local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). [30] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source If possible, find an open support group that you and your loved one can attend together.