Signs that it is time to talk to someone (Written for Springfield Mind)

Everyone is aware of mental health in that sometimes you feel extremely happy and other times you feel a little down. But not everyone is aware of at what point the way you are feeling can be attributed to having a poorer state of mental health than usual. For physical health we can identify when we are just feeling tired and when something really is wrong and we need to seek help. Mental health should be treated in the same way, your reaction to realising something may be wrong should be to seek professional advice.

Here are some signs to help you identify when it may be time to talk to someone:

A continuous state of unhappiness or depression

-If you are lacking energy, losing interest in the things you used to enjoy, feeling irritable or sad for a few weeks or more you should talk to someone.

Constantly worrying or feeling anxious

-Many people get worried for different reasons every now and again but if it is beginning to dictate what you do and overwhelm you then it is time to seek advice. Symptoms of anxiety include: heart palpitations, shortness of breath, headaches, restlessness, diarrhoea or a racing mind.

Having problems sleeping

-On average we need 7-9 hours sleep each night. Continuous issues with sleeping patterns could be a symptom of a mental illness. Sleeping too much or too little may indicate depression or a sleeping disorder.

Experiencing emotional outbursts

-We all have changes in our moods, but sudden and dramatic changes can be a symptom of a mental illness.

Change in weight or appetite

-Whilst there are reasons behind gradual change in weight or appetite for different people depending on their lifestyle habits, a sudden change in weight or appetite could represent a warning sign of a mental illness.

Loss in interest of social activities

-Every now and again we prefer our own company to others but if you or someone you know begins withdrawing from all social activities this can be a sign of mental health illness.

Feelings of guilt and low self-worth

-Thinking that things are “all your fault” or that “you’re worthless” are possible signs of a mental health issue. In severe cases this may include wanting to hurt yourself and suicidal thoughts. It is important to talk to someone if you are feeling this way.

Abusive use of substances

-Drinking too much or using drugs may be used as a coping mechanism and could also be a sign of distress.

The following helplines are available on Mind’s website: mind.org.uk

• To talk about anything that is upsetting you, you can contact Samaritans24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call 116 123 (free from any phone), email jo@samaritans.org or visit some branches in person. You can also call the Welsh Language Line on 0300 123 3011 (7pm–11pm every day).

• If you're experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else,you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).

• If you're under 25, you can call The Mix on 0808 808 4994 (Sunday-Friday 2pm–11pm), request support by email using this form on The Mix websiteor use their crisis text messenger service.

• If you're under 35 and struggling with suicidal feelings, or concerned about a young person who might be struggling, you can call Papyrus HOPELINEUKon 0800 068 4141 (weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 2pm-10pm and bank holidays 2pm–10pm), email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07786 209 697.

• If you live in Coventry and Warwickshire – Mental Health Matters is a helpline which is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 0800 616 171

• If you identify as male, you can call the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day) or use their webchat service.

• If you're a student, you can look on the Nightline websiteto see if your university or college offers a night-time listening service. Nightline phone operators are all students too.

• If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboardon 0300 330 0630 (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+.

• If you live in Wales, you can call the Community Advice and Listening Line (C.A.L.L).on 0800 123 737 (open 24/7) or you can text 'help' followed by a question to 81066.

• For more options, visit the Helplines Partnershipwebsite for a directory of UK helplines. Mind’s Infoline can also help you find services that can support you. If you're outside the UK, befrienders.org lists emotional support helplines around the world.

• Elefriends an online peer support group https://www.elefriends.org.uk/