WHEN you’re feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed, it’s natural to feel like there’s no hope.
But asking for help and getting expert support is the best way to recover and embrace life.
Here’s some tips from the R U OK? Foundation.
Remind yourself that:
- It’s very common to feel alone when going through difficult times but support is available.
- More people are seeking help than ever before.
- Discussing a problem out loud can help you feel less overwhelmed by it.
- Asking for somebody else’s perspective about a problem may help you see a solution you didn’t see before.
- It’s okay to say, “I’m not okay” and it’s okay to ask for help.
If you find it difficult to open up and talk about an issue that’s troubling you, below are some questions to consider to help you take that first step.
Who should I talk to?
- Ask yourself, ‘Who do I trust that I can discuss this with?’
- Talk to someone you feel comfortable with
- If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a friend or family member, you could also talk to a trusted colleague, teacher or a teammate
- You can talk to your doctor or another trusted health professional
- If you want to remain anonymous, you can call Lifeline, Suicide Call Back Service or a number of other help lines by calling 1800 RUOKDAY (7865 329) free from any landline in Australia
Why should I talk to anybody
- Nothing changes until you act
- Asking for help is a courageous first step towards addressing your problems
- Ask the person you trust to follow up with you and check how you’re going.
There are many ways you can access support, including:
- Calling a crisis line for immediate help
- Visiting your local doctor
- Talking to someone you trust
- Talking to someone you trust
- Making an appointment to see a counsellor or psychologist
For more information from R U OK?, click here
This article was first published in The Land's 2013 Glove Box Guide to Mental Health. To read more from the guide, click here.