For loved ones
When someone you love needs psychological support
You see it up close. The change in behaviour, the distance, the restlessness, or the exhaustion. You want to help but don't know how. On this page you'll find honest information, practical guidance and a first step.
Do you recognise this?
Common situations
Your partner is withdrawing more and more
Irritability, silence, no interest in things they used to enjoy. You sense something is wrong but don't know how to bring it up without it turning into a fight.
Your adult child needs help but doesn't know how
You see your son or daughter (18+) struggling, feeling down or withdrawing. As a parent you feel helpless and don't know how to start the conversation. PsyIntake can help arrange a first appointment quickly.
Your parent is struggling with sadness or anxiety
You notice your father or mother becoming increasingly withdrawn, no longer enjoying things or unable to cope. Your parent downplays it or doesn't want to be a burden. PsyIntake can help arrange a first appointment with a provider experienced with older adults.
A friend or colleague is struggling
Someone in your life is showing signs that worry you. You want to be there for them but don't know where the line is between offering support and taking on too much.
Practical guide
What to say, and what not to
I'm worried about you and that's why I'm bringing this up.
You don't have to share everything with me, but I'm here if you want to talk.
I found some information about support. Would you like me to share it?
What do you need from me right now?
I'm not here to rescue you, I just want to be here for you.
You just need to think more positively.
Everyone has it hard, you're not the only one.
You have nothing to worry about.
If you don't see a psychologist, I can't help you.
You're dragging the whole family down.
Step by step
How to help your loved one take a first step
Choose a calm moment, not during an argument
Wait for a quiet moment outside a tense situation. Say you'd like to discuss something and ask if now is a good time. A small opening can have a big impact.
Use 'I' statements and listen more than you talk
"I'm worried" works better than "you should". Ask open questions. Don't be afraid of silences. The conversation doesn't need to solve everything in one go.
Offer concrete help, not vague promises
"I'll come with you to the GP" is better than "I'm always here for you". Small, achievable actions give your loved one something to hold onto.
Look for a practitioner together if they're ready
Via PsyIntake you can search together based on complaint, location and availability. Your loved one decides when they want to book, no one is forced.
Accept a 'no' for now
You can't force someone to get help. But you can keep the door open. Stay present without pushing. People seek help when they're ready, your steady presence makes all the difference when that moment comes.
PsyIntake for loved ones
What can you do via PsyIntake?
As a loved one, you can browse practitioners, compare options and prepare information, without your loved one having to do anything. They book themselves, when they're ready.
Is the situation also affecting you personally? You can book an intake for yourself too. You don't need a diagnosis.
Find support for your loved one
Search for a practitioner that fits what your loved one is going through. Filter by complaint, availability and location. They decide when to book.
Find a practitionerUse the matching wizardOr book an intake for yourself as a loved one
Don't forget yourself
Looking after yourself as a loved one
Your wellbeing matters too
Many loved ones become exhausted, low or anxious themselves without realising it. The burden accumulates. That's not weakness, it's human.
You're not a therapist and you don't need to be
Your role is to be present, not to cure. You can't massage away trauma or reason away depression. Setting limits isn't a betrayal, it's necessary.
Seek your own support if you need it
As a loved one, you can also book an intake via PsyIntake. You don't need a diagnosis. If the situation is affecting you, and it almost always does, that's reason enough.
Talk to others in the same situation
People who are going through the same thing understand you better than someone who sees it from the outside. Look for peer support groups through MIND or similar organisations.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from loved ones
In an acute situation
Crisis information for loved ones
In an acute crisis, if you fear your loved one may harm themselves or others, call 112 immediately. For urgent but non-life-threatening situations:
Available 24/7 by phone and chat, also for loved ones
Peer support and assistance specifically for loved ones
GP or out-of-hours GP service
First point of contact for acute but non-life-threatening situations
Ready to take a first step?
Find a practitioner together. No waiting list, no referral letter needed for a first intake.
Are you a practitioner? Read more for practitioners