Some common mental health issues
Depression
Depression refers to changes in our mood and interest/motivation in doing our usual activities. People who experience depression usually say they notice some of the following:
- Feeling sad or unhappy a lot of the time or crying a lot
- Losing interest in doing the things that you used to find enjoyable and finding it hard to get motivated to do things
- Feeling angry and annoyed, irritable, and fed up most of the time.
- Feeling worthless, guilty and to blame for the way things are in life.
- Having trouble concentrating.
- Sleep problems such as difficulty falling asleep or waking up, waking during the night and having trouble getting back to sleep, or sleeping too much.
- Changes to usual appetite.
- Thoughts of death or hurting yourself.
Most people have some time in their life when the feel down in their mood, such as sad, lost, hurt, or alone. But if these or any of the things listed above last for longer than two weeks it may mean that you are experiencing depression.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural emotion we all have when we are faced with danger or a threatening situation or event. Working out who you are and possibly dealing with discrimination and bullying can be pretty intense and scary stuff! This may trigger anxiety in some people.
People who experience anxiety describe having fears and worries about their safety and/or the safety of others. Some people may find their worries come with different body sensations like:
- shortness of breath
- racing heartbeat
- sweating
- hot and cold flushes
- dizziness
- tingling sensations in arms and legs
- “butterflies” in the stomach
- dryness of mouth
- light-headedness
Because of this people with anxiety may choose not to go out and participate in the things they used to; choosing to stay away from the situations where these worries or sensations happen. If you are experiencing any of the above, contact a support service or talk with your doctor, school counsellor, parent, or someone you trust.
Self-care
Self-care can be an important part of maintaining your emotional and mental wellbeing by helping you keep healthy, recharge and manage your health.
Self-care means intentionally taking time for yourself to do things that are relaxing and that help you unwind.