You do not have to figure this out alone.
When someone you care about is struggling, it can be hard to know what to say, what to do or where to begin. You may be concerned about their mental health, substance use, ability to manage daily life or access to essentials like food or housing. You may notice changes in their behavior or relationships. Or you may simply know that something does not feel right. We can help you understand the options, find helpful resources and support them in taking the next step.
Get Help
WARNING SIGNS
What are you noticing?
You do not need to know the name of a service or program. Start with what you are seeing.
- Changes in mood, behavior or personality
- Increased anxiety, sadness or isolation
- Difficulty at school, work or home
- Alcohol or drug use that is causing concern
- Trouble managing daily responsibilities
RESOURCE CENTER
Find information and guidance
Sometimes the first step is learning more. Our Resource Center offers practical information to help individuals, families and caregivers better understand challenges that can affect well-being. You can find guidance on topics such as:
- Recognizing when someone may need support
- Starting a difficult conversation
- Understanding common mental health concerns
- Supporting someone through recovery
- Caring for yourself while helping someone else
Start the conversation
It is normal to feel unsure about what to say. Begin with what you have noticed and let the person know you care. You might say:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately.”
“I’m concerned about you. How have you been feeling?”
“You do not have to handle this alone.”
“Would you be open to looking for support together?”
Help them connect with support
You can help make the process feel less overwhelming by offering to review information together, sit with them while they make a call, offer transportation, or continue checking in.
If you contact Oaks on behalf of someone else, our team can provide information about services and next steps. The individual seeking services will need to contact us directly to begin or schedule care. A parent or guardian may contact us on behalf of a minor.
Support for Families and Caregivers
Supporting someone through a difficult time can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
If you’re caring for an adult living with mental illness, Intensive Family Support Services in Camden and Mercer Counties can help you better understand their needs, navigate available resources and care for your own well-being along the way.
Learn MoreFAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
We know choosing care for a loved one is a big decision. Here are a few answers to help you feel confident and supported as you take the next step.
View All FAQsYou do not have to figure it out alone. Oaks can help you learn about available services, understand possible next steps and find resources that may help you support the person you care about. Learn more here.
Start with concern rather than judgment. Let them know what you have noticed, listen to what they are experiencing and remind them that support is available.
You can learn more here about getting help for someone you care about such as warning signs and how to start the conversation. You can also visit our Resource Center.
If there is an immediate safety concern, seek emergency or crisis assistance.
It can be difficult when someone you care about is not ready to seek support. You can learn more here about getting help for someone you care about such as warning signs and how to start the conversation. You can also visit our Resource Center.
If there is an immediate safety concern, seek emergency or crisis assistance.
