Take a moment to try and see where the other party may be coming from and their intentions. Consider using a thought-challenging exercise to look for alternate interpretations of the scenario.

For example, if someone dismisses something you have shared with them, think of possible reasons why they may have done so, seek third-party perspectives, and give them the benefit of the doubt. People may care but not know how to respond, especially when it comes to subjects they are not accustomed to discussing with others, which may make their reactions seem dismissive or invalidating.

BE PATIENT

Decades of life experiences, values, beliefs, and perspectives are difficult to change and may even be impossible if sufficient motivation or reason is absent. It will require many steps for even the smallest change to occur, but whenever it does, we should make the effort to recognise and acknowledge it.

Be patient and understand that such change takes time. Sometimes, while waiting on others to change, taking the first step and changing ourselves can have a powerful effect and help them do so more quickly.

For instance, if we want others to care more about us and what is happening in our daily lives, we also need to consider whether we have offered them the same level of care.

Similarly, if we expect the people around us to talk about mental health issues in a way that we agree with, we must begin by asking ourselves: Have we first taken the time to try and talk to them in a manner that is tailored for them?

If we know that some of our older family members and loved ones may not be comfortable with talking about mental health issues, non-direct approaches could work better in conveying our messages. Writing letters, texting, or even passing messages through a third party with whom we feel may value and be open to talking about these issues could help start and facilitate the conversation.