16 October 2023

At one time or another, all of us face challenges in our lives. These challenges can manifest as periods of stress, sadness, anxiety, or even feelings of numbness. However, it's important to recognise when you're struggling and when it might be time to seek professional support. Seeking help for your mental health is both an act of self-awareness and self-care.

Signs It's Time to Reach Out for Help

Persistent Sadness or Anxiety: If you find that you're feeling low or anxious most days for more than a couple of weeks, it's worth speaking to someone. Persistent emotions that impact your daily life can be an indication that you'd benefit from support.

Changes in Sleep Patterns: This could be finding it hard to sleep, waking up throughout the night, or sleeping far more than usual.

Shifts in Appetite or Weight: Rapid weight gain or loss without a clear reason can be a sign of underlying mental distress.

Withdrawal: If you're pulling away from friends, family, or hobbies you once loved, it's essential to consider why.

Feelings of Hopelessness: Feeling that nothing will get better or that life is not worth living require immediate attention.

Decreased Ability to Concentrate: If tasks that once seemed simple now feel overwhelming, or you find yourself easily distracted, it's worth noting.

Increased Irritability or Anger: Sudden outbursts or a shorter temper than usual might indicate underlying concerns.

Engaging in Risky Behaviours: This could be increased alcohol consumption, drug use, or reckless activities.

Your Feelings Are Valid, Regardless of Their Size

One of the most common thoughts individuals have before seeking help is, "Are my problems significant enough?" Remember, you don't need to be in a crisis to reach out for help. Everyone's mental health journey is unique, and what feels manageable to one person may feel overwhelming to another.

According to UK mental health statistics, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England. This statistic alone tells us that seeking support for mental well-being is not unusual—it's a shared experience among many.

Counselling as Self-Care

Counselling provides a safe and confidential space for you to speak about anything on your mind. It can offer fresh perspectives, coping strategies, and a greater understanding of oneself. It's not only for crises but can be a proactive step in maintaining and improving mental well-being. Just as you might visit a GP for physical check-ups, consider counselling as a regular check-in for your mind.

Taking the Next Step

If you recognise some of the signs mentioned or simply feel that talking to someone could be beneficial, trust that instinct. Reach out. Whether it's a GP, a trusted individual in your life, or a mental health professional, beginning the conversation is a brave and crucial step towards wellbeing.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your mental health and well-being are worth it.

Ready to prioritise your mental health? I offer a safe and supportive space online or in Harrogate and am ready to help you navigate your grief. Get in touch via the form below, by email at info@judyfieldcounselling.com or by calling 07855 059 964.

Other Mental Health Resources in the UK

Mind: A leading mental health charity in the UK.
Website: www.mind.org.uk
Helpline: 0300 123 3393

Samaritans: Available 24/7 for anyone in distress or in need of someone to talk to.
Website: www.samaritans.org
Helpline: 116 123

Rethink Mental Illness: Offers advice and support on mental health problems.
Website: www.rethink.org
Helpline: 0300 5000 927

YoungMinds: Focused on the wellbeing and mental health of young people.
Website: www.youngminds.org.uk
Parents' Helpline: 0808 802 5544

SANE: Provides emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental health problems.
Website: www.sane.org.uk
Helpline: 0300 304 7000

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Aimed particularly at men under 45, but available to anyone in the UK.
Website: www.thecalmzone.net
Helpline: 0800 58 58 58

No Panic: Assists people who suffer from Panic Attacks, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and other anxiety-related disorders.
Website: www.nopanic.org.uk
Helpline: 0844 967 4848

Anxiety UK: Works to relieve and support those living with anxiety disorders by providing information, support, and understanding.
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk
Helpline: 03444 775 774

OCD UK: A charity run by and for people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Website: www.ocduk.org
Advice Line: 03332 127 890

NHS Choices: The UK's biggest health website with a dedicated section on mental health.
Website: www.nhs.uk

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact emergency services on 999 immediately or seek medical attention. The above list is not exhaustive, but it provides a starting point for those seeking mental health support and information in the UK.