Am I Mentally Healthy?

I'm getting sick and tired of losing loved ones to mental health issues. And for those that think it's just a voguish subject that doesn't concern them on any level, just know that 1 in 4 people will suffer from a mental health issue in any given year. 

Statistically you will know someone that will be suffering from mental health issues and they could probably do with a phone call from you. A phone call could alleviate them from one moment of depression in an otherwise hapless and negative mindset that could be eating them from the inside-out. #BeKind 

So how do you recognise the symptoms of depression? How do I know if I'm mentally healthy? In this article I'll pull together some facts and advice that I've spent the last couple of hours researching online. What is important to recognise is that these conditions can be treated and it’s important to seek mental health help. 

Professionals have the expertise that can provide that help. 

What are the symptoms of poor mental health? 

ANXIETY

Everyone might get a little anxious for a big interview or first date, but these are perfectly natural feelings. However, if you're feeling anxious on a day to day basis. Anxious around friends that you've known for years. Maybe you feel anxious in every day to day scenarios like shopping or just leaving the house. (Although what a luxury that feels like right now). 

Symptoms of anxiety include; reduced concentration and memory, difficulty in making decisions, become irritable and angry on a constant basis and avoiding certain situations for fear of a rush of uncontrollable emotions. 

You might tick one or two of those boxes, but if you tick them all then this is a serious red flag. 

DEPRESSION 

Are you having one bad day after another? Can no longer blame it on getting out of bed on the wrong side? Is your partner constantly telling you to stop whinging and are your friends constantly telling you to 'cheer up?' 

If the low mood doesn't improve or go away you could be suffering from depression. Symptoms of depression include; continuous melancholy, prolonged anxiety, inexplicable guilt, resentment, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. You might also have low self-esteem and a tendency to believe that others may only see them in a negative light. 

BIPOLAR DISORDER  

Generally people that suffer from extreme Bipolar Disorder have already been diagnosed. But you could be one of those people that refuse to see doctors on a regular basis or simply learn to live with the symptoms. Which is fine, but your disorder will also have a heavy effect on those around you. Especially if you have children. 

Typical symptoms include; finding it hard to maintain relationships and jobs due to their extreme moods. Lack focus on what to you, seems to be an important issue. People with bipolar are often found at either end of the needle, either full of energy, talking very quickly etc, or lacking in energy, sad pessimistic and hopeless. Other signs to look out for are unrelenting self-criticism and blame, impaired memory and concentration, Neglect and loss of interest in appearance and personal hygiene. 

OCD

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder are often compounded by feelings of anxiety, combined with obsessive and unwelcome thoughts that lead to compulsive behaviour. Common obsession is that dirt and germs have contaminated them. (Although right now please do have a little OCD with washing your hands).

You'll also show signs of extreme ritualism, inane activities that only an OCD sufferer feels compelled to carry out. For example constantly checking that doors are locked. You might also fixate on a number. 

Conclusion

In the past 25 years anxiety and depression in teenagers have risen by 70%. Mental Health is the topic of our time. It's misunderstood and its destroying people. People don't understand it, they don't understand they're in it. 90% of people that commit suicide have a mental illness. 

Where to get help for Mental Illness?

The NHS have provided an extensive list of helplines and websites you can visit to support people that struggle with the symptoms of Mental Health. I strongly recommend you check out these helplines and talk to someone if you're worried about yourself or a close friend or family member.