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How to Talk About Mental Health
1st April 2023
What is mental health?
We all have mental health. It involves our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and it affects how we think, feel, and act.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, if not more so. It can affect our everyday lives, including our ability do the things we need and want to, like work, study, getting on with people and looking after ourselves and others.
Another way to think about mental health is like thinking about the weather. As the seasons change, the weather does too. There are bright and sunny days which make us feel happy and want to do things like going outdoors, but on other days the weather can change to darker, rainy days, where you don’t feel like leaving the house. Like the weather, your mental health can go through periods of positive and bright bursts of energy, and it can also dip and drag you down a darker road. You may feel tired and lack motivation or energy to do the simple things, such as getting out of bed or getting on with your day.
Whatever you are feeling, know that this is completely normal, and you can seek support or speak to family and friends about how you are feeling.
What can cause mental health difficulties?
Lots of things can affect our mental health. Things like situations we’re in, things we’re doing and things outside of our control, including other people, our physical health, our finances and even the weather and world events such as the pandemic.
Everybody is affected by what happens to us, past and present. Things that happened even many years ago can affect our mental health today, for better or worse. Genetics also has an influence.
It’s good to talk about your mental health
It can be really difficult to talk to friends and family about your feelings. You might feel worried about upsetting people you care about and feel nervous about what people will think, or how it might affect your relationships. That’s Okay, these feelings are completely normal.
Some people feel more comfortable talking to friends or family, others would prefer to speak with a professional, there’s no right or wrong way.
Tips for talking to someone
Communicate in a way that feels right for you
This might be a face-to-face conversation, or you might find it easier to talk on the phone or write down how you feel in a letter.
Find a suitable time and place
There may not be a ‘good’ time, but it can help if you’re somewhere quiet and comfortable, and are unlikely to be disturbed for a while.
Choose someone you trust
Talk to or let someone know who will listen to what you have to say, not tell other people if you don’t want them knowing and who will be there to support you.
Practice what you want to say
You could do this in your head or make some notes. Phrases such as “I’ve not been feeling like myself lately” or “I’m finding it hard to cope at the moment” might provide a starting point.
Be honest and open
It can sometimes feel uncomfortable sharing something so personal, but explaining how your feelings are affecting your life may help others to understand.
What do you need?
This might just be listening and offering emotional support – or there may be practical help you need.
Who can I talk to?
There are lots of way’s you can get support, you might find some are more suitable for you, or more easily available. There’s no wrong order to try things in – different things work for different people at different times.
Go to your GP
Your doctor is there to help you with your mental health as well as your physical health.They could offer your support and treatments (such as talking therapies and medication), refer you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, or recommend local support options.
Talk to No Limits
Our trained youth workers and counsellors can talk to you and support you with any issue you are facing. We have specialist projects and groups that may be suitable for you to attend, and we can explore other areas of support with you too. You can talk to us in person, on the phone or online.
Student Services
Higher education institutions usually have a student wellbeing centre where enrolled students can go for support.
Other organisations
Papyrus
Call the Hopeline in 0800 068 41 41 for advice and support for people under 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide.
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