MENTAL HEALTH

Mental Health is something we all have.  Some people have described it as a feeling of contentment, well-being, being able to make decisions, being comfortable with ourselves and with others, being able to laugh, have fun and enjoy life.  It is important to look after our mental health.

 

How to spot symptoms of mental distress:

Everyday stresses with work, school, family and friends can make you feel irritable, unmotivated or withdrawn.  This is normal and these feelings usually pass.

However, if they don’t go away, or if you notice changes in your behaviour or the behaviour of someone you know, talk to someone about your concerns or call a confidential helpline such as the Samaritans on free phone 116123

If you notice such changes in yourself or others, it might feel a bit scary; don’t worry – help is available.

Talk to someone and ask them to help you find help.

 

 

Some things to look out for might include:

 

• Withdrawing from friends, family, school or work
• Change in mood or unusual response to situations
• Changes in sleep patterns – too much or too little
• Doing things that don’t make sense to others
• Seeing or hearing things that others don’t

 

Here are some things that help you to maintain good mental health, and which can help if you start to feel down:

 

• Get involved and try out new things
• Keep active & eat healthily
• Appreciate what you have
• Accept yourself for who you are
• Develop your creative side
• Stay in touch with friends and family
• Talk to someone you trust
• Find some time each day to relax
• Set little goals and work towards them
• Drink alcohol in moderation

     

Ask for and accept help

 

Getting Help

Help for mental difficulties can take different forms. It will involve talking therapies, it may involve some medication, or a combination of both. Your GP will be able to talk you through your options and what is best for you. Talking therapies include going to see a psychologist or counsellor. Lots of people find talking to a professional really helpful. The first visit is nothing to worry about! You will be asked some questions about yourself, your family and your life and also about the difficulties you are currently experiencing. This will help to build up a picture of what is going on in your life. Talking therapy will give you space to talk through issues and together with the therapist you will come up with ways to feel better and move forward.