Mental Health Awareness Week
In the UK, mental health awareness week runs from May 10th-16th 2021 . At Non Violence, we focus on creating the best environment possible by giving the younger generation the educational tools of expression and conflict resolution via non-violent communication. We recognise that individuals’ mental health impact their behaviour and the choices they make.
As a charity, our focus is to create a better future for the younger generations, however, we understand it is difficult to plan and prepare for a future when mental illness takes opportunities away from you.
We will continue to do our part in encouraging expression and non-violent communication, which is why over the coming weeks we will be sharing information to signpost help for those who may need it. We are not trained specialists in this area, however, we will continue to educate to the best of our abilities and open up the conversation to eliminate any wrongfully remaining stigmas. Even if you think you personally can’t make a change, your impact matters- by simply engaging in the conversation.
What is mental health?
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also factors in to how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Mental health is crucial at every stage in life, from childhood through to adolescence and adulthood. You are likely to experience some kind of mental health issues over the course of your life and it can affect your mood, thought patterns, behaviour and physical health. Many factors can contribute towards issues with your mental health including :
Biological factors (genes or chemical imbalances)
Life experiences such as trauma or abuse
Family history of mental health problems
Mental health problems are common and should be normalised as your brain is the organ that controls your whole body, it can need help in the same way you would require medical attention as a result of a broken bone. It is important to remember that help is available. People with mental health problems can get better and many may recover completely.
What are the signs?
There are many different early warning signs that could determine whether someone is experiencing some kind of mental health issue, the list below are vague guidelines to suggest what you should look out for and should not be used to fully determine or diagnose. Take these behaviours as a signpost that there could be a deeper rooted issue regarding mental health and wellbeing if the signs appear to “come out of the blue” :
Withdrawing from people or typical hobbies/interests
Feeling numb, disinterested or like nothing matters
Feeling helpless or hopeless
Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried or scared
Yelling or fighting with family and friends
Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
Disassociating (emotionally detached, not living in the present) or experiencing psychosis
*symptoms vary from person to person, PLEASE seek medical or professional advice if you believe you could be experiencing any kind of mental health issues. Do not be afraid to speak out and get the help you need. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous referral if you are concerned about another individual.
Mental Health Charities
Mind
Founded in 1946, Mind has become one of the UK’s leading mental health charities with a national presence including over 150 shops and 140 Mind centres. Mind works in partnership with local communities to ensure that needs and services available are matched up, providing unique and high-quality care resources. Mind offer services including cognitive behavioural therapy (talking therapy), peer support, advocacy, crisis care and employment support.
Place2Be
Over 50% of mental health issues start before the age of 14, it is imperative that young people receive support at this critical time. Place2Be offers counselling and training in schools, teaching students how to cope with a broad range of social issues such as bullying, domestic abuse and trauma. They also offer parents advice on how to support their children, providing parent counselling and parent partnership sessions intended to boost parents’ confidence in their abilities to support their children.
Shout 85258
Shout 85258 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope. They have had over 500,000 conversations with people who are anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or need immediate support. As a digital service, the charity has become increasingly vital since the Covid-19 pandemic, being one of the few support services that remained operating as normal. To start a conversation, text the word SHOUT to 85258.
Author Ellie George