Natasha Holek: Mental Health Blog
Having completed my MHFA course in Feb 2022 having little previous knowledge of Mental Health Awareness, I was very surprised to learn that one in four people in the UK experience a mental health problem each year. This is of course, those that have been recorded. The reality is the figure will actually be much higher.
We all know the impact that Covid had on people's mental health with statistics on people suffering hitting an all time high. Mixed Anxiety and Depression is the most common mental disorder in Great Britain.
So what is Mixed Anxiety
and Depression?
Anxiety is intense fear or worry, while depression is a lasting period of low mood, low motivation, and low energy. Although anxiety and depression can occur on their own, many people experience both at the same time. Excessive worrying can make you feel flat and down, feeling depressed can make you more likely to worry, and both can be triggered by stressful situations.
It is normal to feel flat and worried from time to time, especially when you’re going through a stressful time. However, persistent and intense feelings of depression or anxiety can stop you from enjoying life. If you’re feeling worried, tense, flat, upset, or unmotivated nearly all the time, then this information may be helpful for you.
Spotting the signs:
Both physical and psychological signs can occur with Anxiety and Depressions.
Physical Signs
- Muscle aches and tension
- Nausea
- Feeling unusually tired
- Change in appetite
- Sweating more than normal
- Reduced interest in sex
- Unintentionally losing or gaining weight
Psychological Signs
- Feeling persistently worried
- Feeling flat or hopeless
- Thinking negatively
- Feeling unmotivated
- Feeling irritable
- Having trouble concentrating
- Being unable to enjoy the things you used to
Things to do to help
- Talk to family, friends, colleagues or a Mental Health First Aider
- Make time for self care, do activities that you enjoy
- Ensure you are eating well, sleeping well and getting fresh air and exercise
- Seek professional help from your GP or other professional bodies
For more information, you can contact Natasha by clicking here.