When to Ask for Help Managing Mental Health: Signs You Need Support

When to Ask for Help Managing Mental Health: Signs You Need Support

Mental health is often viewed as a taboo topic, and it can be difficult to know when to ask for help. Many people suffer from mental illness without even realising it, and they may feel like they're the only ones who are struggling. If you're feeling overwhelmed or like you can't cope with your mental health anymore, it is important to seek professional help. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs that you need support managing your mental health.

What are some common signs that someone needs help managing their mental health?

It can be difficult to tell if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health. However, there are some common signs to look out for:

  1. You're feeling overwhelmed and like you can't cope with your everyday life
  2. You're not enjoying things that used to make you happy
  3. You're isolating yourself from others
  4. You feel hopeless or helpless
  5. You feel overly anxious or panicky
  6. You've experienced drastic changes in eating or sleeping habits or are abusing alcohol or drugs
  7. You're having difficulty concentrating
  8. You feel irritable, angry or trouble controlling your emotions
  9. You've been having suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviours
  10. Your mental health has caused problems in your relationships
  11. You're struggling to keep up with school or work
  12. You feel like people are judging you or that you're a burden to them

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide support and guidance in managing mental health conditions. They can also help to identify any underlying causes of the symptoms and develop a plan for treatment. With the right help, it is possible to manage mental health conditions and lead a fulfilling life.

When to Ask for Help Managing Mental Health: Signs You Need Support

Common Mental Illnesses: List and Descriptions

Mental illnesses are disorders of the brain that can cause changes in mood, thinking, and behaviour. They are common, affecting tens of millions of people every year. While there are many different types of mental illness, some of the most common include anxiety and depression.

Anxiety disorders are characterised by feelings of fear, worry, and unease. People with anxiety disorders may avoid certain situations or activities because they fear the anxiety will become too overwhelming. Depression is characterised by persistently low mood and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. People with depression may also experience feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness. Bipolar disorder is characterised by extreme mood swings, from highs (mania) to lows (depression). During a manic episode, people with bipolar disorder may feel excessively happy or energised, while during a depressive episode they may feel hopeless and tired.

While mental illnesses can be serious and debilitating, there are many effective treatments available.

What are some of the risks associated with not seeking help for mental health issues?

Mental health is essential to our overall wellbeing, yet many people suffering from mental illness do not seek help. This can be due to a variety of factors, including shame, stigma, and lack of access to resources.

Left untreated, mental health issues can lead to relationship problems, job loss, substance abuse, and even suicide. Some of the most common risks associated with not seeking help for mental health issues include:

  • Isolation: When we're struggling with our mental health, it's common to withdraw from friends and activities we once enjoyed. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can worsen our condition.
  • Self-medication: Rather than seeking professional help, some people self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. This can lead to addiction and make it even harder to cope with mental health issues.
  • Violence: In some cases, mental health issues can lead to violence towards others or even suicide. It's important to seek help before things spiral out of control.

If you're struggling with your mental health, don't suffer in silence. Seek professional help as soon as possible. There are many effective treatments available that can help you get your life back on track.

When to Ask for Help Managing Mental Health: Signs You Need Support

How can you find the right support system for you or your loved one struggling with mental health issues?

Mental health issues can be complex and difficult to navigate, but there are resources available to help. A support system can offer individuals struggling with mental health issues the compassion, understanding, and practical assistance they need to cope with their condition. Family and friends can be a valuable source of support, but it is also important to seek out professionals who are trained in mental health care. These individuals can provide expert guidance and direction when it comes to seeking treatment and managing symptoms. There are many different types of support systems available, so it is important to find one that is tailored to your specific needs. With the right support in place, you or your loved one can begin the journey toward recovery.

Commons treatments for Mental Health Conditions

There are a variety of treatment options available for mental health conditions. Pharmaceuticals, natural remedies and talking therapies can all be effective in managing symptoms and promoting recovery. Each person will respond differently to different treatment modalities, so it is important to work with a mental health professional to find the approach that is right for you.

Medication can be an important tool in managing mental health conditions, however it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to work closely with a prescribing physician.

Natural remedies such as supplements, homeopathy or Bach flower remedies may also be helpful, but it is important to do your research and speak with a qualified practitioner before starting any new treatment.

When to Ask for Help Managing Mental Health: Signs You Need Support

Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can also be very effective in treating mental health conditions. These therapies can help you to understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. Again, it is important to find a therapist who you feel comfortable with and who has experience treating your particular condition.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health treatment, so it is important to explore all of your options and find the approach that works best for you.

How can friends and family be supportive of someone who is struggling with mental health issues? 

Friends and family can support someone who is struggling with mental health issues by providing emotional and practical support. Emotional support includes being a good listener, offering reassurance, and giving encouragement. Showing patience, empathy and kindness are key in being a supportive figure for someone dealing with mental health difficulties. Practical support involves helping with day-to-day tasks like grocery shopping or cooking meals. It’s also important to offer support that is tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. For example, some people may appreciate having their friends check in on them regularly, while others may prefer to have more space. By offering both emotional and practical support, friends and family can make a positive difference in the life of someone who is struggling with mental health issues.

Where to get help

If you're struggling with your mental health, the best place to start is by talking to your GP. Your GP can talk to you about your symptoms and how they're affecting your life. They can also offer advice and support, and put you in touch with other services that can help. Remember, your GP is there to help you, so don't be afraid to speak up.

There are also a number of helplines and online resources that can offer support and guidance. The most important thing is to reach out for help if you're struggling. With the right support, you can start to manage your mental health and lead a happy and fulfilling life.

If you're keen to explore more natural, holistic pathways to support your mental health, at Mindful Remedies we provide personalised Bach flower remedy blends and online consultations with Lucy who is a registered Bach Practitioner. You can find out more about flower remedies and the services we offer via the links below.

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about the author

Since 2021, Lucy Edwards, a qualified Bach Flower Practitioner and the driving force behind Mindful Remedies, has connected with clients across the world. Crafting thousands of personalised remedies, Lucy has supported individuals' emotional wellbeing, shipping remedies to far-flung places like the USA, Thailand, and Australia.

Lucy is readily available for conversations, offering personalised advice to guide you on the path to holistic wellness. It's important to note that she's not only qualified but also registered with the Bach Centre, ensuring that every consultation and remedy adheres to Dr Bach’s original guidelines for expert care and efficacy.