FAQ
Find the Answers You Need
How do I know if what I’m feeling is a mental health problem or just a rough patch?
Everyone experiences difficult periods in life, such as sadness, anxiety, irritability, or even exhaustion. Sometimes, these feelings can last a little longer than expected or they may start to interfere with your everyday activities like work, sleep or relationships, and even your self-care.
Signs that you might benefit from extra support include:
- Feeling low or anxious
- Feeling overwhelmed most days
- Losing interest in some activities that you usually enjoy
- Changes in your sleep or appetite
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling isolated or disconnected from others
If any of these feelings continue for several weeks or start to affect your daily life and activities, it might be helpful to speak to a trusted friend, your GP, or a mental health professional. By reaching out early, you can make a big difference.
What are some simple things I can do to improve my mental health day-to-day?
Practicing small, daily habits can have a positive impact on your mental wellbeing. While everyone’s needs are different, here are some helpful steps you could include:
- Stay connected – talk to friends, family, or someone you trust
- Get regular sleep – aim for a consistent sleep routine
- Move your body – even light activity, like walking, can improve one's mood
- Take breaks – stepping away from stress for a short time can help reset your mind
- Practice mindfulness or relaxation – breathing exercises, meditation, or quiet time can reduce tension
- Limit overwhelming inputs – reducing social media or news intake can sometimes help
If you're finding it difficult to cope, speaking with a professional can provide additional support and strategies.
Why do I feel like nothing I do will make things better?
Feelings of helplessness can often occur when someone has experienced ongoing stress, setbacks, or emotional challenges. Over time, it can lead to the belief that nothing will improve.
These are very valid feelings, but they aren't permanent.
Talking to someone you trust or a professional can help explore what you're experiencing and identify ways forward.
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What should I do if I’m having thoughts about ending my life?
If you're having thoughts about suicide, you are not alone, and help is definitely available. These thoughts can feel overwhelming, but they can pass with the right support.
If you feel you might act on these thoughts, here are some things you can do to help:
- Contact the emergency services (999 or 111) or visit your nearest A&E department
- Reach out to a friend that you can trust, a member of your family or a professional
- Speak to a trained listener through a helpline
By talking to someone about how you feel will help reduce the intensity of these thoughts.
How can I talk to someone about suicidal thoughts without feeling judged?
Talking about suicidal thoughts can feel difficult, but many people find that sharing how they feel reduces the sense of isolation.
Start by saying something like:
“I’ve been struggling with my thoughts lately", or
“I’m not feeling safe and could really use someone to talk to.”
If speaking to someone you know feels a little too difficult, there are confidential helplines and support services available where trained listeners will talk with you without any judgment.
What are some effective ways to manage stress when everything feels overwhelming?
When stress builds up, it can feel like everything is happening at once. Breaking things down into smaller steps can make situations feel more manageable.
Strategies that may help, include:
- Focusing on one thing at a time
- Taking short breaks during busy periods
- Practising breathing or relaxation techniques
- Getting regular physical activity
- Talking to someone about what you're experiencing
Learning to recognise early signs of stress can also help you cope before it becomes overwhelming.