News

What to Do if You Feel You’re Struggling with Mental Health

Call Us Today
Author
Category
Last Edited
Share this post

Tags – Struggling with Mental Health

With statistics stating that 1 in 4 of us will have a mental health issue some time in our life, it’s not as uncommon as you might think.

Equally, mental illness is not discriminatory and can affect anyone, regardless of gender or age.

Therefore, it’s highly possible that if you feel you’re struggling to cope, you might be suffering with mental illness and the sooner you act, the better.

Identifying the Problem

Mental health issues can manifest in many ways but the likelihood is that you’ll be acutely aware if you’re struggling.

For example, if you feel unable to cope with everyday situations or feel very teary or irritable, it may be that you need support.

Equally, feeling isolated or paranoid could also be signs of an underlying problem.

There are self-help methods available in some instances but if you feel the need for outside support, there are several paths available.

Your Partner/Family

To get the best support to overcome any mental health issues, let those closest to you know how you’re feeling.

As a result, those who love and care about you most will have a greater understanding if you should behave out of character.

Similarly, they will better be able to support you with the smaller things such as taking some of the load from your shoulders, enabling you to focus on getting well.

Equally, talking things through with someone you can trust is invaluable in reducing anxiety. 

Your Doctor

If you have concerns about your mental health, seek an appointment with your GP.

Even better, make a double appointment; particularly useful if you don’t want to feel too rushed. 

Whilst making the appointment is a great step forward, you should consider how to get the best from it. For example, it can be good practice to write down how you’ve been feeling to give the doctor a better sense of your symptoms.

Equally, it’s often useful to write down questions so that you don’t forget and miss your chance. 

Another good idea when seeking medical help is to take someone trusted with you so they can offer support.

Additionally, a companion can also help you remember what was said by the doctor too. 

Your Employer

If you have an empathetic employer, consider speaking to your line manager or HR department about your mental health struggle.

Larger companies with designated HR departments may well be better equipped to support you than smaller employers.

However, there is much more support available today than in the past.

Whilst you may feel you’re making yourself vulnerable if you share your issues at work, there are ways in which they can support you. For instance, some larger employers have counsellors on hand to help.

Equally, there may be an element of flexibility in your work practice that your employer can suggest. For example, temporarily working part time or perhaps from home may help you to feel less overwhelmed and aid your recovery.

Alternative Therapists

There’s a vast range of different therapies which can help with mental health issues.

For example, hypnotherapy and acupuncture are well known practices used in the treatment of various forms of mental illness.

As such, asking friends or family for any recommendations is a useful way to find a tried and tested practitioner.

In addition, experts in reflexology, aromatherapy, meditation, tapping and other therapies can be a huge asset in overcoming mental health issues.

Using relaxation techniques alongside coping strategies, alternative therapies are well worth investigating.

To learn more, get in touch with us today.

In the meantime, check our court of protection solicitor services.

And, you may also like:

  1. 7 Common Misconceptions About Mental Health
  2. What is Mental Health?
  3. 10 Warning Signs of Mental Illness You Should be Aware of