If the person does not want your help

You may find that the person does not always want your help, for example:

  • When the person is depressed or irritable, they might push you away and try to isolate themselves. It can be a good idea to still keep in regular contact with the person in case they need or want help later.
  • The person may find it easier to discuss what help they need with someone else, even if they care deeply about you. In this situation, if the person needs help, ask them if there is someone else who they would like to help them (e.g. clinician or another support person).
  • Sometimes, even if a person is very ill, they may see no need for help. For example, people who are very manic sometimes lose insight into the fact that they are unwell. (For more information see ways to help in a bipolar crisis).