Did you know that, at any given time, about one in six people in the UK experiences a common mental health issue like depression or anxiety? A great many of us are quietly struggling and not getting the help we need, and perhaps this includes you or someone you know?
Sadly, suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50. With that in mind, how can you spot if a friend or loved one is going through a tough time, and what can you do to support them or to get the help you might need yourself?
Spotting the Signs
Sometimes it’s hard to tell, but there are often some subtle changes you might notice in yourself or others. Keep an eye out for things like:
- Being withdrawn or lost in thought, or other indications that you or a loved one is not fully present in conversations or social gatherings.
- Losing a sense of humour. Sometimes, as we get unwell, we don’t laugh at things we once found funny.
- Being unusually emotional. This could be anything from being tearful or agitated to seeming completely emotionless.
- Changes in daily habits. Look for shifts in appetite, weight, or sleep patterns.
- Drinking more alcohol than usual. This is often a sign that someone is trying to cope with difficult feelings.
How to Find or Offer Help
If you are concerned about your own wellbeing, Open Mental Health is here for you. It is easy to access our services—check out this article; it has all the info you need.
When it’s a friend or family member, it is important to take a tactful, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach. When you’re ready to talk to them, here are a few things that can make a difference:
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Start by calmly telling them what you’ve noticed. Try saying something simple like, “Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little different lately,” without being critical.
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Tell them your concern and ask if they’d like to talk. A simple, “I’m a little worried about you—would you like to chat?” can open the door to conversation.
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Don’t downplay their feelings. This is very important. Avoid saying things like, “What do you have to be depressed about?” or, worse still, “Just snap out of it.” Make sure they understand that you accept that their feelings are valid, even if you don’t understand them.
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Listen, really listen. Give them the space they need to talk about how they’re feeling without interrupting or trying to “fix” things.
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Encourage them to seek professional help. Suggest they call Mindline Somerset on 01823 276 892 or 0800 138 1692 or see their GP. You can even offer to call/go with them for support.
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Make a Crisis Safe Space Appointment. Crisis Safe Space supports people who are really struggling with their mental health. You can arrange a one-to-one session with a member of the Crisis Safe Space team who will listen and help. Sessions are held face-to-face or virtually, depending on the location. Book an appointment by calling Mindline on the numbers above or on our website.
If you feel someone is at risk, stay with them and call emergency services, First Response, or their GP for an urgent appointment. Alternatively, you can go to your local hospital’s Accident and Emergency department.
Helping someone take these first steps can make a massive difference in their life.
Pushing Back Against Stigma
People often feel embarrassed or ashamed to say they’re struggling with a mental health issue in a way they never would about a physical one. We can all help by talking about mental health openly and honestly. The more we talk about it, the more we can help everyone feel comfortable and supported.
Improving Our Mental Health and Wellness
Looking after our own mental health is just as important as helping others—in fact, we can better support other people when we are feeling well, and if our mental health is in a good place, we can relax and enjoy life more. So, it’s important to take care of ourselves as well as others.
For some great resources and tips on looking after your wellbeing, take a look at Ways to Promote Your Wellbeing. You will find useful links to health guides, tools, and activities.
For more information about mental health conditions, check out our Symptoms and Conditions page—you’ll discover facts about different types of mental health challenges and how to find help.
Please share these links with your friends and on social media! The more people know about mental health and the support that’s out there, the happier and healthier we can all be.