Talk
If you find yourself starting to feel down or getting more and more anxious find someone to talk to. Phrases like “a problem shared is a problem halved” or "keeping it bottled up never did anyone any good” are clichéd but they are true! Talking can help because:
- sometimes you don’t even know what you are feeling until you do this
- it can help you work out why you are feeling that way.
Even writing a diary or a letter can help you see things more clearly.
Once you know WHY you are feeling the way you are it is much easier to work out HOW you can feel better.
There are a million reasons that can lead to young people suffering mental health problems. It might be money problems, tension in a relationship or family troubles, etc. But once you know what is troubling you, you are one step closer to solving it!
Remember, small problems tend to turn into bigger problems if you ignore them.
Find something to do
If you are feeling down in the dumps or worthless because you are not enjoying school/college or whatever, maybe it's time to take up a hobby or go to a night class on a subject you really enjoy.
Even better volunteer and go out and do some good for others. Sometimes this is the most rewarding experience imaginable and you will also pick up new skills, meet new people and start feeling a little bit better about yourself. The Young Scot Volunteering section has more ideas.
Positive mental attitude
Fighting the blues is all about being and thinking positive.
- Don’t dwell on the past.
- Look to the future, making goals for yourself- remember to keep them realistic.
- Take it one step at a time. If after all of this you do still feel anxious or down in the dumps, don’t be scared to go to a doctor or a counsellor. They will be able to help you more.
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