World Mental Health Day 2023

​On World Mental Health day on October 10th, the theme is “Mental health is a universal human right”, acknowledging that some groups of people face bigger obstacles in getting and maintain good mental health.

Amongst these groups, are people who have long-term physical conditions, “Research shows that 38% of people with severe symptoms of mental health problems also have long-term physical conditions”. This could mean that as a Domiciliary Care Worker or Healthcare Assistant, the very people you care for could also be struggling on the inside just as much as the outside.

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Here are some tips on talking to others about their mental health:

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1. Find a good space to talk without distractions

If you’re worried about someone, try to find a place where you know you can have a conversation without being distracted. Make sure to give them your full attention.

 2. Listen and ask questions

Listening can be one of the most valuable ways to be there for someone. Show them that you’re actively listening by facing them, making eye contact, and not interrupting. Questions can help you clarify what they mean and also show that you’re actively listening.

 3. Ask how you can help

Ask how you can help or make suggestions, rather than telling them what to do next. They might want support with making a GP appointment, help around the house, or just for you to keep things normal and chat about what’s going on in your life.

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However, when your main job responsibility is caring for others, sometimes its hard to sit and think about whether self-care Is needed. Always take the time to consider your own frame of mind.

Here are some tips on talking about your own mental health:

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1. Choose someone you trust to talk to

This might be a friend, family member or a colleague. Or you might be more comfortable talking to someone you don’t know, for example, through a support helpline. It can help to do a pros and cons list about talking to someone.

2. Think about the best place to talk

It’s important to choose a place where you feel comfortable enough to open-up. You might want to choose somewhere private where you’re less likely to be disturbed. You also might want to talk while you do an activity, like walking together.

3. Prepare yourself for their reaction

Hopefully, you will have a good experience when you open-up to someone. But there’s a chance that they may not react in the way you hope. This may be for different reasons, like they may be worried or not fully understand at first.If that’s the case, try to give them time to process what you’ve told them. It might help to give them information to read to help them understand. And don’t forget to be kind to yourself and practice self-care.

The above has been recommended by the Mental Health Foundation in relation to World Mental Health Day 2023. To find out more:https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

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Resources

• Lifeline - 0808 808 8000 -The Northern Ireland crisis response helpline service for people in distress or despair.

• Samaritans – 116 123 –If you’re having a difficult time or worried about someone else

• Aware NI – aware-ni.org –Aware NI offer online support groups to help manage stress as well as a support mail service.

• Every mind matters - https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/ -Every mind matters have a range of CBT techniques to help manage stress

Never be afraid to reach out for more help.​