Talking about mental health isn’t as taboo as it used to be, but it’s still not exactly easy.
People who are struggling might be desperate to open up about how they’re feeling to someone, but they might not know how, or they might not want to burden anyone. It’s also possible that they might not even realise what they’re experiencing, which is a common experience. Either way, if someone is having a tough time mentally and emotionally, they might send some of these texts. If you receive one, do what you can to find out how they’re really doing and point them in the right direction for getting help.
1. “I’m so tired all the time.”
This isn’t just about being physically worn out; it’s often a sign of mental and emotional exhaustion. They might be feeling completely drained by everything they’re dealing with but don’t know how to explain it. Responding with something like: “I hear you. That sounds really tough. Want to talk about what’s been going on?”
2. “I can’t today.”
Sometimes, cancelling plans doesn’t mean the person doesn’t want to see you; they’re likely just feeling overwhelmed and need to conserve energy. They might not have the mental capacity to engage, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to. You could say: “No worries at all! Let’s reschedule when you’re feeling more up to it.”
3. “I’m fine.”
Often, when someone says, “I’m fine,” it’s their way of masking deeper feelings. They’re trying to protect themselves by not letting on that things aren’t okay. Gently probing with, “Are you sure? I’m here if you want to talk about anything,” can let them know you care without pushing them too hard.
4. “Sorry I haven’t replied.”
For many, even simple tasks like texting can feel like too much when they’re struggling. They’re probably apologising because they’re feeling guilty or embarrassed for not being able to manage things like they used to. A reassuring response could be: “Don’t worry about it! I’m just happy to hear from you. How are you really doing?”
5. “I don’t want to bother you.”
Source: Unsplash This text can mean that they’re feeling like a burden, even though they deeply need support. It’s crucial to let them know they’re not a bother and that you’re there for them no matter what. Something like: “You’re never a bother. I’m always here to listen, no matter what.”
6. “I’m just stressed about work.”
Source: Unsplash While work stress is real, this could be their way of downplaying something bigger. They might not want to dive into the deeper issues they’re facing. You can respond with: “I know work can be tough. Is there anything else that’s been on your mind lately? I’m here to talk if you need to.”
7. “I don’t feel like doing anything.”
Source: Unsplash When someone says this, it can be a sign of low mood or a lack of motivation, which can often be linked to mental health struggles. Instead of pushing them, you could say: “I totally get that. How about we do something small, like a walk or just chat, whenever you’re ready?”
8. “I wish I could just disappear for a bit.”
This can sometimes come from a place of feeling overwhelmed by everything and needing a mental break. It could indicate feelings of helplessness or wanting to escape. You might respond with: “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. Let me know how I can help or if you just need a space to talk it through.”
9. “I’m just so over everything right now.”
Source: Unsplash Feeling “over everything” can indicate a sense of frustration, burnout, or even hopelessness. They might not know how to process these feelings, so it’s helpful to show support by saying: “That sounds really hard. I’m here for you — what can I do to help?”
10. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”
Source: Unsplash This is often a sign that they’re feeling confused and isolated in their mental health struggles. They might not understand what they’re going through, and that’s only making things harder. Letting them know that they’re not alone with: “Nothing’s wrong with you. You’re just going through a tough time, and I’m here to help you through it,” can provide reassurance.
11. “I just want to sleep forever.”
Source: Unsplash When someone expresses wanting to sleep forever, it’s often a sign of deep emotional or mental exhaustion. They might be feeling worn down by everything they’ve been facing. A compassionate reply could be: “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. Maybe some rest will help for now, but I’m here if you want to talk later.”
12. “I hate feeling like this.”
Source: Unsplash This can reveal frustration with their mental health, especially if they feel stuck or unable to change how they’re feeling. Acknowledge the difficulty of the situation with: “I can only imagine how hard that must be. I’m here for you, and we’ll figure this out together.”
13. “I don’t feel like myself lately.”
Source: Unsplash When someone says this, they might feel disconnected from who they used to be, which can be an unsettling experience. You can show empathy by responding with: “That must feel really strange. Want to talk about what’s been going on? I’m happy to listen.”
14. “I don’t know how to explain it.”
Source: Unsplash This text usually comes when someone is overwhelmed and doesn’t know where to start. The weight of their feelings might be too much to put into words, so offering a patient, open-ended response like: “Take your time, I’m here whenever you’re ready to talk,” can make a big difference in helping them feel safe to open up.
