If someone is avoiding help because they fear stigma, you can support them with concrete, compassionate steps that reduce barriers and encourage care. Here are practical approaches you can take, in order of impact:

Create a safe, nonjudgmental space

• Validate their feelings without judgment. Acknowledge that stigma exists and that their concerns are real and understandable.
• Listen actively: reflect back what you hear, ask open-ended questions, and avoid lecturing or giving unsolicited advice.

Normalize help-seeking

• Normalize mental health care as a routine part of well-being, not a sign of weakness. Framing it as “taking care of your health” can lessen shame.
• Share that many people experience similar struggles and that seeking help is a strength.

Use inclusive, non-stigmatizing language

• Avoid labels or terms that define the person by their condition (e.g., “the anxious one”) and instead focus on behaviors and feelings (e.g., “I notice you’ve been overwhelmed lately”).
• Encourage language that emphasizes empowerment and agency.

Offer concrete options and control

• Help identify low-threshold first steps (e.g., talking to a trusted primary care clinician, school counselor, or Employee Assistance Program).
• Suggest options that preserve privacy and autonomy, such as confidential telehealth, walk-in clinics with discreet entrances, or staffed hotlines.
• If appropriate, offer to accompany them to an appointment or help them research providers.

Reduce practical barriers

• Address logistical concerns: schedule, transportation, cost, language needs, and childcare.
• Help them locate affordable or covered services, community clinics, or student/employee assistance programs.

Introduce supportive allies

• Encourage them to confide in trusted friends or family members who are supportive.
• If they’re students or employees, discuss confidential campus or workplace resources that are accustomed to handling stigma sensitively.

Provide credible information

• Share reputable resources about mental health that emphasize realistic expectations, treatment options, and the reality that many people improve with help.
• Encourage them to seek information at their own pace; avoid overwhelming them with details.

Model self-care and resilience

• Demonstrate healthy coping strategies you use, such as journaling, routine, and seeking support when needed.
• Encourage small, manageable steps rather than forcing big decisions.

Safety and urgency

• If there’s any risk of harm to themselves or others, prioritize safety and seek urgent help from emergency services or a crisis line.
• Normalize reaching out for urgent help in crisis situations, without stigma.

How to respond in the moment (example phrases)

• “I’m glad you told me how you’re feeling. I’m here to support you in whatever way you need.”
• “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. We can find resources together.”
• “Would you be open to talking with someone at [resource] who has experience with what you’re going through?”

If you’d like, specify the setting (school, workplace, family, or friend group) and the person’s age or condition type (e.g., anxiety, depression, substance use). This will allow for tailored, culturally sensitive suggestions and a step-by-step plan you can use right away.