The start of 2023 saw Brew Monday, Time To Talk and various other mental health awareness campaigns.
A Mental Health Epidemic
According to new research from Mind, over one in three UK adults surveyed- equating to 36 per cent- never make space in their day or the time to speak about their mental health – this adds up to 19.6 million people aged 16 and over.
Mental health.
The word is everywhere, but genuine discussion and empathy for it in communities still need to be explored. Despite the growth of awareness, research and support resources, the mental health epidemic is growing. Why is this?
Mental Health and Screen Exposure
According to Mental Health.Org, several studies suggest that higher screen use levels in children and adolescents are associated with reduced physical activity, increased risk of depression, and lower well-being.
Mental Health in Unprecedented Times
We are living in unprecedented times. Large world disasters, the pandemic, the climate crisis, and constant access to global news are known to induce anxiety. In a recent study from Planetary Health, Psychological responses, mental health, and sense of agency for the dual challenges of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic in young people in the UK: an online survey, it was found that the COVID-19 pandemic was widely associated with feelings of anxiety, isolation, disconnection, and frustration; distress around loss and grief; and effects on quality of life. The report found that although UK youth reported more life disruption and worry for their future due to the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change was linked with a lot more distress overall, particularly for individuals with low levels of generalised anxiety.
Mental Health During the Cost of Living Crisis
Financial hardship in general, and/or from the cost-of-living crisis, on top of the long-lasting impact of the pandemic, is affecting people’s ability to make space and manage their mental health. The mental health of nearly 8 in 10 Britons has been affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
Mental Health and Personal Stressors
Family, interpersonal relationship struggles and diet and lifestyle habits also are known to impact mental health amongst adults.
Time To Talk Day
On-Time to Talk day earlier this month, some of our team shared what helps them during their bad days and their struggles with being open about their mental health.
Personal Comforts for Mental Health
“I try to get outside and move my body when I am struggling. If I can’t manage that, I curl up in bed, stick on Friends or the Office US (depending on the day, lol), eat something sweet and cuddle my dog. I now have to settle for looking at photos/ videos of him as I’m living away from home- but it still helps!!
There is something so pure and innocent about dogs; they have so much love to give, are primarily cheerful, and have no clue what’s happening in the world (Must be nice🤣). Knowing this always brings me comfort and joy.
Social interaction and reaching out to people are crucial if you are feeling low, but rest and time-out are also necessary. Sometimes, if we have a free day and don’t feel like doing anything, that’s fine.
I struggle with letting people know when I am down, as I am familiar enough with my lows now that I know they will pass, and I don’t like burdening people. However, I have recently started letting family and friends know in case I go quiet, so they are kept in the loop. I don’t want the people I love to worry, but I know they will get far more upset to know I suffer alone. And every time I speak, I feel a weight off my shoulders and a huge relief!”
Self Care and Movement for Mental Health
“When I’m struggling, I like to have some me time, whether a face mask, getting my nails done or lashes that give me the boost I need.
I have also recently joined back at the gym (again), but I went loads last year, which really helped my mental health. So I’m hoping for some structure and routine. I like to know what I’m doing and struggle with unexpected things.
I struggle to tell people I’m not doing well because I try and be so positive all time, and it is hard to try and be it when you are having a down day.
The other thing I do is play Lego Games on Xbox… I know nerdy,, but I’m currently playing Star Wars 😂😂.”
My Nephew and my Niece never fail to brighten my mood.”
Cuddles for Mental Health
“When I’m struggling,, I like to have cuddles with my nieces and nephew. They give the best cuddles and quickly put a smile on my face.. I also want to give myself some TLC to pick myself up when I’m down. I’m in a great routine In the gym,, where I go 3/4 times a week,, which is a great way to have my own space and switch off from the world.
I struggle to open up to people because I don’t want to feel like a burden or feel like I’m putting things on other people’s plates! I’m usually the friend people come to for advice and even just if they need to vent. I tend to go entirely on everyone until I’ve picked myself back up again. It’s not that I don’t want to talk to people because I do,, but with those things said above and also sometimes trying to explain to someone how you feeling but not knowing how to explain it yourself can be difficult!”
Family and Mental Health
“When I’m feeling down,, I cuddle my little miracle. Most people know why she means so much to me. She’s not just my little girl. She is my hope and strength on my bad and good days. I hope she listens to what I say to her cause I always get a ‘Yes,, Mummy’ but who knows what goes on in the mind of a 2-year-old diva 😂”
Not All of Us are Ready to Speak About Mental Health
“It’s all amazing how open and honest you are with what helps you when struggling and having hard times ❤️ but for some of us, talking isn’t the answer. Its getting up do day to day things with a smile fixed on our faces; we’re not all open books ready to share.”
Everyone is different, and mental health is complex- there is no quick fix solution. Hopefully, seeing others share, people can find comfort in knowing they are not alone and seek support.
People with learning disabilities are likely to experience more frequent mental distress during their lifetime than those without a learning disability. Human interaction, compassion and community is what we need now more than ever. If you don’t feel ready to talk; Mental health matters have put together helpful resources for crisis management, low mood, well-being, LGBTQ & mental health, and more.
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