Ask · Listen · Encourage action · Check in
ALEC
Do you ever wonder how to best support someone struggling with their mental health? The ALEC method provides a simple framework for having open and supportive conversations. Learn how to Ask, Listen, Encourage action, and Check in with those you care about. With ALEC, you can create a safe space for them to share their feelings and empower them to take steps towards feeling better.
Ask
- Be relaxed, friendly and concerned in your approach.
- Help them open up by asking questions like “How are you going?” or “What’s been happening?”
- Mention specific things that have made you concerned for them, like “You seem less chatty than usual. How are you going?”
- If they don’t want to talk, don’t criticise them.
- Tell them you’re still concerned about changes in their behaviour and you care about them.
- Avoid a confrontation.
- You could say: “Please call me if you ever want to chat” or “Is there someone else you’d rather talk to?”
Listen
- Take what they say seriously and don’t interrupt or rush the conversation.
- Don’t judge their experiences or reactions, but acknowledge that things seem tough for them.
- If they need time to think, sit patiently with the silence.
- Encourage them to explain: “How are you feeling about that?” or “How long have you felt that way?”
- Show that you’ve listened by repeating back what you’ve heard in your own words and ask if you have understood them properly.
Encourage action
- Ask: “What have you done in the past to manage similar situations?”
- Ask: “How would you like me to support you?”
- Ask: “What’s something you can do for yourself right now? Something that’s enjoyable or relaxing?”
- You could say: “When I was going through a difficult time, I tried this... You might find it useful too.”
- If they’ve been feeling really down for more than two weeks, encourage them to see a health professional. You could say: “It might be useful to link in with someone who can support you. I’m happy to assist you to find the right person to talk to.”
- Be positive about the role of professionals in getting through tough times.
Check in
- Pop a reminder in your diary to call them in a couple of weeks. If they’re really struggling, follow up with them sooner.
- You could say: “I’ve been thinking of you and wanted to know how you’ve been going since we last chatted.”
- Ask if they’ve found a better way to manage the situation. If they haven’t done anything, don’t judge them. They might just need someone to listen to them for the moment.
- Stay in touch and be there for them. Genuine care and concern can make a real difference.
Words you can use
Simple prompts are enough.
“You seem less chatty than usual. How are you going?”
“How would you like me to support you?”
“I’ve been thinking of you and wanted to know how you’ve been going since we last chatted.”
Practise the conversation
Learn more and put ALEC into practice.
Movember Conversations offers an interactive ALEC learning experience, while the MATES Matter guide includes background, examples and scenarios for workplaces, whānau and young people.
