Mental health

A brief introduction...

It is estimated that about 20% of us will have mental health issues at some point in our lifetime. The circumstances of these may vary, as can the symptoms, which may include:

  • not wanting to do things that you previously enjoyed
  • feeling irritable, upset, miserable or lonely
  • being self-critical
  • maybe wanting to self-harm
  • feeling irritable, upset, miserable or lonely
  • feeling hopeless
  • confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate
  • excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt
  • extreme mood changes of highs and lows
  • withdrawal from friends and activities
  • significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping
  • inability to cope with daily problems or stress
  • problems with alcohol or drug use
  • major changes in eating habits
  • sex drive changes
  • excessive anger, hostility or violence
  • suicidal thinking

CHAT : remember you are not alone, as an Old Southendian, there are others you can chat to...
  • Care for yourself and others.
  • Help to look out for behavioral changes of friends.
  • Address ongoing issues. Don’t let them develop.
  • Talk to somebody when you need to - someone you trust, a counsellor, or connect with an Old Southendian.

Where else to get help...

The following contact details and resources may be useful to find help, or to learn more about mental health...

Samaritans
Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide)
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
The Mix
  • If you're under 25 you can talk to The Mix for free on the phone, by email or on their webchat. You can also use their phone counselling service, or get more information on support services you might need.
  • www.themix.org.uk

  • Freephone: 0808 808 4994 (13:00-23:00 daily)

The NHS - Mental Health and Wellbeing
  • The National Health Service in the United Kingdom has more information about mental health and wellbeing on its website, with help available through the NHS and other organisations "if you're feeling stressed, anxious or depressed, or just want to feel happier".
  • NHS Mental Health and Wellbeing Site