There are many ways that someone may act if they are struggling with their mental health. Everyone may act in different ways and this can make its difficult to know if there is an issue. However, there are 9 common indicators to look out for that might suggest you or someone is struggling with their mental health.
These 9 signs are not to help you diagnose a mental health issue, but instead to reassure you that there might be good reason to seek more information about your concerns.
1. Feeling Anxious or worried
We all get worried or stressed from time to time. But anxiety could be the sign of a mental health issue if it’s constant and interferes all the time.
2. Feeling depressed or unhappy
Have you noticed that you have lost interest in a hobby you used to do? Been sad or irritable for the last few weeks or more? Are you lacking in motivation and energy or are teary all the time?. You might be dealing with depression.
3. Emotional Outburst
Sudden and dramatic changes in mood, such as extreme distress or anger, can be a symptom of mental illness.
4. Sleep Problems
Persisting changes to your sleep patterns could be a symptom of a mental illness.
5. Weight or appetite changes
Fluctuating weight or rapid weight loss could be one of the warning signs of a mental illness, such as depression or an eating disorder. Other mental health issues can impact appetite and weight too.
6. Quiet or withdrawn
We all need quiet time occasionally, but withdrawing from life, especially if this is a major change, could indicate a mental health issue. If you are isolating yourself, you may be struggling with your mental health.
7. Substance use
Using substances, such as alcohol or drugs, to cope can be a sign of, and a contributor to, mental health issues.
8. Feeling guilty or worthless
Thoughts like ‘I’m a failure’, ‘It’s my fault’ or ‘I’m worthless’ are all possible signs of a mental health issue, such as depression. You may need help if you’re frequently criticising or blaming yourself.
9. Changes in behaviour or feelings
A mental illness may start out as subtle changes to a person’s feelings, thinking and behaviour. Ongoing and significant changes could be a sign that you have or are developing a mental health issue.
Information from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/ Noticed any of these symptoms?
It might be time to make a change.
Self-help isn’t all face masks and bubble baths. Whilst these may work for some people, it won’t be effective for all. Self-care techniques and general lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of many mental health problems. They may also help prevent some problems from developing or getting worse.
Here are some tips for looking after yourself that you might find helpful.
Be active
Being active shouldn't be seen as something we 'should' or 'have to' do - it's something to be enjoyed, and a wellbeing tool for our mental and physical health. And remember, some activity is better than none. If the thought of playing a sport or doing a full out sweaty workout fills you with dread, simply try to move more during your day to day activities.
While studying take regular breaks and aim to move every hour.
If studying at home, break-up your day with an exercise session, you can find some here: The Body Coach, Yoga with Adriene, Fitness Blender or the Sports Centre online home workouts.
If studying on campus, join a sports team or a society (does not have to be sport specific could be gardening, drama, music), or explore your campus.
There’s loads more great ideas of ways to be active on the Start to Success Taking Control of My Wellbeing module for Keele and Staffordshire Students. Why not try to set some active goals using this workbook, or reach out to our Active Wellbeing Officer, Anne Piper for some 1-2-1 support.
Eat Well
Eating a balanced diet by following the eat well guide can contribute towards maintaining good health and help you feel your best by: improving mood, boosting energy levels and preventing and/or managing diseases. You can find the Vegetarian and Vegan Eatwell Guide on the Vegetarian Society and Vegan Society websites.
Tips for Eating Well at University:
Learn a new recipe- checkout cooking inspiration
guidesCook a meal from scratch for friends or family
Try making some healthy snacks for when your
studyingPrep a healthy lunch and snacks ready for a
study dayRemember to keep hydrated, keep a reusable
bottle with you and fill up at water stations
Sleep Well
Getting a good night sleep can support our physical and mental wellbeing. Check out this video for some top tips for better sleep.
Take Notice
Take notice of any worries, stresses and concerns, and take control of them. Check
out this video on how to tackle your worries. Make time in your day to relax. Why not join a club or society, get some fresh air, take a social media break, catch up with a friend
or meditate.
An important part of self-care is recognising when you may need a little more support, and knowing where to go for that when you need it. When starting university, or progressing to a new year, make sure you find out exactly what services are available at your institution and in the local area. Keele and Staffordshire students can find out more here.