World mental health awareness day was on Monday the 10th of October this year, marking the 30th anniversary since it was first celebrated. As I am sure numerous people are aware of by now, mental health is one of the most important things we must keep in check. However, many of us aren’t aware that when we are suffering, it can be due to the thoughts in our heads and many of us do not even know where to start when it comes to fixing it. At the end of this article, I have left some links for those of you that are struggling that you may find helpful. It is so important for us to check in with ourselves regularly, especially at this time of year when seasonal depression is common among students. In the UK, 3 in 100 people suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) compared to the entire population of almost 30,000 people.
Journaling is a method that I have found useful when I am concerned with my mental wellbeing. I find that when I can express certain emotions in a physical format, it helps me work through them better. Another thing that I have found beneficial when I have been struggling is communication with friends or family. It does not have to be much but talking to someone about anything at least once a day can help ground you and bring you out of isolation. As that is one of the hardest places to fall into when you are struggling, it is important to not be alone. However, I am no expert on how to completely wipe away any problems you may be struggling with as everyone’s health is unique to them. Therefore, it is vital to seek professional help if things are getting a bit too much. There is no shame in it, even if it is through an online platform such as BetterHelp, it can make all the difference and you need to take some time for yourself.
If you are concerned about someone you are close to and you think they may be struggling, it is so important to check in on them. Even if they don’t reply or give much of an answer, checking in on someone can make all the difference; make them feel like they are not alone and that they can confide in someone when the time is right for them. Similarly, if they do have the confidence to confide in you, please listen to them. This may be the first time they are opening up to someone and bombarding them with “relatable” experiences may make them feel like you’re invalidating their emotions. It can be hard at times if you do not know what to say or how to give advice on the matter but that is not always necessary. Although there are some websites available that have useful questions you can ask someone who may be struggling, what is important is that you are an open-minded friend who listens and loves unconditionally. Actions also speak louder than words with this, be there for them don’t just say that you will.
Always check in with yourself and others, not only on Mental Health Day but every day of the year. It is important to practice what you preach, don’t post lots about helping a friend and not checking in on yours. I hope that this may offer some value to some readers, and I hope that you all stay safe.
Useful Links
- https://childadolescentpsych.cumc.columbia.edu/articles/tips-asking-friend-about-their-mental-health
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/202008/7-questions-help-people-talk-about-their-mental
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem/where-to-start/
- https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true&utm_source=AdWords&utm_medium=Search_PPC_c&utm_term=better+help+uk_e&utm_content=128279754703&network=g&placement=&target=&matchtype=e&utm_campaign=15228626133&ad_type=text&adposition=&gclid=CjwKCAjwtKmaBhBMEiwAyINuwAEvBFYv7bGSVcuxKSHe5vKNGjPaBACcUzVj8J4-Yy9Z3u1UdfChLRoC1-MQAvD_BwE¬_found=1&gor=start
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helping-someone-else/
Written by: Eilidh Kirk
Edited by: Michele Ngue-Awane