How to Interview a Person with a Mental Disorder Respectfully

How to Interview a Person with a Mental Disorder Respectfully

Okay so listen up, my friend! You ever thought about interviewing someone who has a mental disorder? Sounds kinda scary, right? Like trying to pet a lion at the zoo. But dont worry! I got your back. This is gonna be fun and also super important. The goal is respect, laughter and understanding. So strap in, because we’re gonna give you the lowdown on how to do this without totally messing it up.

Step One: Get Your Mind Right

But before you even think about scheduling that interview, you gotta get your head straight. Like seriously, ask yourself why you wanna do this. Is it for some deep and meaningful reason or just for clicks on social media? If it’s the clicks then maybe you need another hobby like knitting or collecting stamps. Just sayin’.

Step Two: Do Your Homework

Imagine trying to dive into the ocean without knowing how to swim. Not smart, right? So read up! Learn about different mental disorders. You don’t have to be a genius but know enough so when they say they have OCD, you don’t respond with “Oh like the cleaning thing?” Nope! That’s not cool.

Step Three: Choose the Right Place

And speaking of coolness… pick a chill spot for the interview. Maybe not a roller coaster or an abandoned haunted house. Think coffee shop or park where people can chat but not eavesdrop too much. Cozy but no distractions—like squirrels stealing your sandwich.

Step Four: Start Lighthearted

Okay here’s where it gets fun! Open with something light! You could be like “Hey did you hear about the guy who tried to make his own ice cream machine? Spoiler alert: he ended up with soup!” Make ‘em laugh first ’cause laughing lightens everything up!

Step Five: Ask Open-Ended Questions

So instead of saying “Do you feel sad?” Try asking “What are some things that spark joy in your life?” Or just throw out stuff like “If you were a fruit, which one would ya be and why?” Keep it goofy but genuine. You’ll get them talking way more.

Step Six: Listen Like Your Life Depends On It

And this is BIG if you’re going in with the intent to understand their story, really listen. No comparing their experiences with yours or zoning out while thinking about lunch. Nod along like you’re trying to win an award in listening competitions.

Step Seven: End on a High Note

When wrapping things up, don’t just sprint away like someone yelled ‘fire!’ Thank them for sharing their time and stories with ya! Maybe suggest grabbing ice cream or something fun after if they’re down for it. Everyone deserves ice cream.

Fun FAQ Section

Question: What if I mess up during the interview?
Answer: First of all chillax! If you stumble over your words just laugh it off like “Oops guess I need more coffee!” People love when others are human too!

Question: Can I joke around about mental disorders?
Answer: Okay so tread carefully here my friend! Better safe than sorry ya know? Stick to jokes that aren’t directly related to their struggles cause laughter should build bridges not burn them!

Question: Should I become besties after?
Answer: Haha well that depends! Sometimes yes and sometimes no! But always respect their space—don’t force friendships like it’s a one-man band show!

Question: What if they don’t want to talk?
Answer: That’s totally cool too man! If they’re not feeling it today just roll with it like “I get that—some days talking is harder than climbing Everest!”

Question: What if they share hard things?
Answer: Listen empathetically dude! Let them vent but don’t try solving all their problems unless they hand you an instruction manual—because those usually don’t exist!

Question: Can I talk about my own issues too?
Answer: Yeah sure but remember it’s not your therapy session okay? Focus on them mostly because sharing life experiences can turn interviews into gossip fests very quickly!

Question: Should I record our convo?
Answer: Only if they’re cool with it man! Always ask first—nobody likes surprises unless it’s free pizza showing up unexpectedly!

So there ya go buddy! Go forth and interview those amazing souls respectfully and humorously. And remember… everyone has stories worth telling—even that weird guy at the bus stop who talks to pigeons—it could make for great content too!