Spreading the word about mental health one day at a time.
As the majority of us are at home, it can have an impact on our mental health even if we are aware of it or not.
Mental Health Awareness Week took place 18-24 May 2020 which has inspired me to write this blog post.
Although I consider myself to be a homebody, I started to notice that my mood was changing.
I would experience the following:
• Getting irritated easily.
• Poor concentration which began to have an impact on my ability to complete university assignments
• Losing interest in things I once enjoyed.
• I started to become more worried that something bad was going to happen.
• My sleep was impacted and I struggled to stay asleep.
My partner mentioned that mood swings were more extreme. I was quite emotional most days despite my self-care routine.
Initially, I thought I displayed symptoms of ADHD (inability to concentrate, excessive restlessness, lack of focus, extreme impatience) however, my doctor believed that I may be suffering from anxiety and depression.
I meditated, I prayed and I eventually built up the courage to talk to my doctor about how I was feeling
I was then referred to IAPT; Croydon talking therapies. I had a consultation with a psychiatrist. It was determined that I was exhibiting moderate to severe symptoms of depression and anxiety.
In prior posts, I mentioned that I believe that I was experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression but I was yet to talk to a professional about it.
Time at home has had its peaks and low points. I love being in my own space but it has caused my mood to suffer as a result.
However, having a face to face conversation with my doctor about how I was feeling was nerve-wracking for me. I felt less anxious about picking up the phone to talk to someone.
As a result of talking to my doctor, I am starting a course of CBT which I am happy about. One of my goals for this year was to continue with counselling and that is exactly what I am doing.
According to Mind, in the UK alone, I in 4 people will experience some mental health problem each year.
As more and more people are discussing their mental wellbeing on social media platforms, it has become a topic of discussion which enables more people to get the help they need.
I encourage everyone who is exhibiting changes in their thoughts, feelings and behaviour to consult their GP. With the increase of unemployment and level of uncertainty surrounding our economy; it can have a detrimental impact on our wellbeing.
Please make sure that you are using this time at home to focus inward and take care of yourself not just physically but emotionally too.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post.
Stay safe and take care.
