One in four people in Northern Ireland will experience problems that affect their mental health, yet very few of us are willing to talk about the subject openly. Those with mental health problems often face stigma and discrimination, and fear of these can prevent them from getting help and hinder their recovery.
Mental health problems affect society as a whole, and not just a small, isolated segment. While certain groups are more vulnerable, no-one is immune to poor mental health.
Mental health problems are health conditions that are characterised by alterations in thinking, mood or behaviour, but good mental health is more than simply the absence of problems.
You can find out more about mental health and detailed information about specific conditions from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Remember, taking time out to remember a few simple ways to protect your mental wellbeing could make all the difference. These include:
- get enough rest;
- make time for yourself, family and friends - talk to them about how you feel;
- get to know who you are, think about and try to do things that make you really happy, and don’t forget to laugh regularly;
- cultivate and encourage optimism in yourself and others, try to avoid over thinking and comparisons with others – learn to balance and accept what you can and cannot change about yourself;
- exercise regularly, preferably with someone else;
- limit your intake of alcohol and avoid cigarettes and other drugs.