Let’s talk about anxiety
During Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from 12 to 18 May, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to seek help for any mental health problems they may be experiencing.
Almost one in five people in Northern Ireland show signs of a possible mental health problem.
Anxiety, one of the leading causes of mental ill-health in the world, is the theme of this year’s awareness week.
It is normal to feel anxiety in everyday situations such as going for a job interview or at exam time. This anxiety can help improve our performance. However, when anxiety starts to interfere with daily life and becomes intense, it could be an indication of the development of an anxiety disorder.
Dr Stephen Bergin Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the PHA, said: “Anxiety disorders can manifest themselves in different ways, but symptoms can include anxious and fearful feelings, avoiding people or situations, increased use of alcohol and or drugs and physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle or chest pain, rapid or shallow breathing or palpitations.
“Those experiencing anxiety can recover and it is important to seek help if you feel you need it. Talking therapies, self-help strategies and medication can all help with anxiety.
“People often try to cover up the fact that they are experiencing anxiety, distress or despair.
“Rather than being a sign of weakness, it takes real strength to talk about your mental health issues. Talking about how you are feeling to someone you trust, whether that’s a friend or family member, GP, charitable organisation or support service such as Lifeline, can be the first step towards recovery.”
More information on looking after your mental health and the support which is available across Northern Ireland can be found at www.mindingyourhead.info
You can also talk to your GP for advice.
If you or someone you know is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. This is a confidential service, where trained counsellors will listen and help immediately on the phone and follow up with other support if necessary. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access the Lifeline website at www.lifelinehelpline.info