Dealing with a mental health issue

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but sometimes people find it hard to talk about how they’re feeling. If you're going through a difficult time, it's important to know that help is available — and you don’t have to face it on your own.

Where to get help and support:

Talk to Family and Friends

One of the first steps in dealing with a mental health issue is talking to someone you trust. This could be a parent, sibling, cousin or close friend. Sharing how you feel can:

• Take a weight off your shoulders

• Help others understand what you’re going through

• Lead to useful advice or support

Friends and family can also help with day-to-day things like going with you to appointments, encouraging you to stay active, or just being there when you need company.

Get Professional Help from a GP

If things feel too much to handle on your own, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP (doctor). They can help you understand what you're experiencing and recommend a treatment programme that’s right for you. This might include:

• Counselling – Talking to a trained professional about your thoughts and feelings in a safe, private setting

• Medication – Some people are prescribed medicine to help manage conditions like anxiety or depression

• Self-help groups – Meeting other people who understand what you're going through

• Voluntary organisations and local leisure facilities – These can help build confidence, reduce stress, and improve your wellbeing

Your GP will explain all your options and support you in finding what works best for you.

Use Helplines and Voluntary Organisations

Sometimes, it feels easier to talk to someone who isn’t part of your family or friendship group. In that case, voluntary organisations can help. For example:

• Lifeline offers confidential counselling services where you can talk to a trained professional. They’ll listen without judging and help you work through your feelings. Appointments can be arranged at a time that suits you.

• Other organisations run 24-hour helplines you can call at any time of day or night. You can talk anonymously and get advice on how to cope with stress, anxiety, loneliness or other mental health problems. Just having someone to talk to can make a big difference.

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED:

Describe one way professional help may support a person with a mental health issue. (2marks)

A GP can refer the person to counselling, where they can talk privately with a trained professional about their thoughts and feelings. This support can help the person understand their emotions and develop ways to cope. (2 marks)

You should also read:

Dealing with anxiety

Dealing with stress

Dealing with depression