Hi there,
Mental health issues can affect anyone, no matter how old they are or what their situation is. No one chooses to have mental health issues and, with help, things can improve.
There are different types of mental health issues, all of which can have an impact on your life in their own way. They may affect how you feel about yourself, your happiness, how you approach and overcome challenges, or how much you’re able to connect with people. The same mental health issue may affect two people in different ways.
When mental health issues are affecting you, it’s important to get help. Lots of people try to cope on their own but this isn’t always possible. A good starting point is to visit your doctor or speak to an adult you trust. If you’re already getting support, such as from CAMHS, it’s important to be honest and open with them about what’s going on. By doing this, they can work with you and help you.
There are also things you can do to help yourself. Writing a diary to express your thoughts and feelings privately can be a safe way of recognising and acknowledging when you’re feeling upset, distressed or unable to cope. This diary would just be for you, unless you decided to share it with your therapist or another person you trust.
It’s also important to make sure you eat well and are taking care of your physical needs, like getting enough sleep or rest, and keeping yourself as fit and healthy as you can.
If you’re worried about this affecting things at school, you could make sure someone there knows you’re struggling. The sooner your school is aware, the quicker you can get help.
If you’re not sure how to begin talking about your mental health with someone at school, you can first try sending an email to a teacher you feel comfortable with. Sometimes putting things in writing is easier than saying it in person.
It can be hard to understand feelings and thoughts that feel out of control or unsafe. Being in this kind of situation can be scary and worrying and make people feel unsure of what to do, or who to turn to for help. A counsellor at Childline is always there for you whenever you want to talk about anything that’s on your mind. They’ll listen and be there to support you.
Take care,
Sam
