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Health and Well Being - Mental Health

Hello Grapevine readers -

My name is Natasha Page a Wollaton based B.A.C.P Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist. This month’s article is about how to start a conversation about mental health.

Signs someone might be struggling with their mental health. Regarding mental health, we’re all incredibly different; we have different triggers, coping mechanisms, and ways of showing (and hiding) that we’re having a tough time. But there are certain signs that you should look out for if you’re concerned about a family member or friend that might suggest they’re not doing so well.

• If they struggle to shower or get dressed

• If they start ignoring messages and calls from friends and family

• If their eating patterns noticeably change

• If they start isolating themselves

• Have difficulties getting to work on time or not wanting to go

• If they can’t sleep or sleep too much

• If they lose interest in socialising

Of course, the best way to know if someone is struggling with their mental health is to talk to them – but it can be tricky to know where to start. How do you raise it?

What do you say?

What if they don’t want to talk?

How to start a conversation about mental health

It’s a really good idea to think through where you’re going to have the talk, when you’re going to do it, and what you’re going to say.

• Where: You want the conversation to feel relaxed, so choose somewhere quiet where you won’t keep getting interrupted. It can be easier to talk if you’re doing something else at the time, so go for a walk, a meal, or a coffee to ease any pressure.

• When: Choose a time when neither of you will feel rushed. You want to be able to take your time without the pressure of

The My Little Therapy Box resource was created by me after I observed some clients struggling to open up in the early stages of therapy. Some clients also struggle to articulate their feelings into words. So, I created My Little Therapy Box to help people in or out of therapy to explore their mental health in an accessible way and to start or have more meaningful conversations around mental health.This unique resource has helped 1000’s of people from all around the world. To find out more please visit: www.mylittletherapybox.com having somewhere else to be. It’s also a good idea to avoid particularly difficult or stressful times, such as the night before a deadline.

• What: It can help to make a note of some of the things you want to say – even if you don’t crack out a notepad during the conversation, it’ll get things clear in your own head. The most important thing is to be supportive and encouraging, and to let the other person talk. Your job is simply to listen.

Remember: you don’t have to try and take on the role of therapist. Just let the person know that you’re there, and that help is out there. They might just need a bit of encouragement to seek some help and support, and to realise there’s no stigma in that.

Article by Natasha Page (Wollaton-based Psychotherapist)

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