Welcome back to Episode 9 of our podcast series! We have finally arrived at the point where we talk about the ‘What’ of saying something.
As we’ve discussed, all components of ALGEE are important, but knowing what to say can often be the first and feel like the biggest hurdle. It’s natural to worry about saying the “right” thing, which can lead to hesitation and missed opportunities. But remember, the most important step is simply to start the conversation.
To help get the conversation started, let’s break it down into 3 phases. For each phase I am going to suggest a couple standard things you could say to begin using the ALGEE action plan.
Phase 1: Open the Door_ Here are the first two things to say to open the door of communication:
- “Are you okay?”
- “I’ve noticed…” for example, “I’ve noticed you seem a lot quieter lately.”
The first question is simple, direct and shows you care. The next type of statement shows you have been paying attention. It is also an ‘I” statement that helps avoid conveying judgement and increases receptiveness. Ether of these can be used in combination or in reverse order.
Phase 2: Encourage Sharing _ If the person opens up, we want to gently encourage them to share more with either or both of the following:
- “What’s going on?”
- “What’s happening?”
Phase 3: Listen and Offer Support_This is when you listen non-judgmentally and based on what you come to understand, you can begin to offer reassurance and information. You might want to refer to Segment 3 of your Participant Processing Guide (PPG) for helpful phrases. Two powerful ones are:
- “I’m concerned about you.”
- “I’m here for you.”
Those who travel in foreign countries where people speak different languages often carry a pocket phrase book in some form to help them communicate and navigate. Although what I have just shared might seem like a generalization and oversimplification, I would encourage you to put these 6 phrases in the pocket of your mind.
- “Are you okay?”
- “I’ve noticed…”
- “What’s going on?”
- “What’s happening?”
- “I’m concerned about you.”
- “I’m here for you.”
In most cases these can help you navigate and communicate in what may seem like the foreign land of people with mental health challenges.
Remember, these are just starting points. The most important thing is to approach the conversation with empathy and a genuine desire to help. You’ve got this! Speak up, say something, use ALGEE to support mental health, and potentially save a life.