Life can be difficult from time to time, and some days or weeks are tougher than others. When things do get tough, asking for help or support is usually the first steps in getting back to being well and staying well, but it is also probably the hardest step.It can be difficult to know how to start or where to turn. It is also common to wonder whether you should carry on ‘working through’ struggles and continue to handle things on your own, but it is always ok to ask for help.
You might want to get help if you're:
- worrying more than usual,
- finding it hard to enjoy your life,
- having thoughts and feelings that are difficult to cope with, which have an impact on your day-to-day life,
- interested to find more support or treatment.
Depression
The word 'depression' is used in many different situations. Everyone can feel sad or blue from time to time, especially when bad things happen, or when we are going through a very difficult time. However, everyday 'blues' or sadness is not depression (MHFA,2020). People who are feeling down or feel like they have the 'blues' may have a short-term depressed mood, but they can manage to cope and soon recover without any treatment. A Clinical Depression is one that lasts for at least two weeks and affects your behaviour and has physical and emotional effects. It will interfere with your day to day routine, work and can effect your relationships. This kind of depressive state needs medical support. If you are feeling this way, it is vital that you talk to someone. The sooner we act, the easier things will become. You can make an appointment with your GP or have a look at some of the websites recommended above.
5 steps to mental wellbeing
Evidence suggests there are 5 ways you can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life.
- Connect with other people
- Be physically active
- Learn new skills
- Give to others
- Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness)
National Mental Health Charity, which offers an excellent range of materials on all aspects of depression and manic depression. It also lists details of local Mind Associations.
A site that can offer Apps for people experiencing panic attacks. It can provide immediate audio assistance during a panic attack and help prevent more attacks. This is mainly suited to panic attacks.
No Panic is a registered charity which help people who suffer from panic attacks, phobias, OCD and other anxiety related disorders.
Information and support for Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and disorders related to Body Dismorphia, skin picking and compulsive hair pulling.
Helps all those suffering with anxiety disorders. Can provide information and support for self help leaflets, contact lists, self-help groups, counselling, phone self-help groups and email support.
This site offers free cognitive behavioural based self-help and therapy resources.
Credits:
Created with images by Emma Simpson - "Morning jog in the countryside" • Imani Clovis - "untitled image" • Austin Kehmeier - "untitled image" • Stefano Pollio - "krisis" • Javier Allegue Barros - "This photo is a stolen one, which I could not resist"