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Help yourself before you can help others

you must help yourself

Listening to the air hostess giving the pre flight safety talk last week, a thought finally struck home. You must help yourself before you can help others.

She was talking about what to do in the event of sudden cabin pressure loss. You know the bit where the oxygen masks fall from the roof? Well like everyone who has children I have always thought why would I put my mask on first? The most important things to me, as every parent, are my children and I would gladly give my life for either of them, so why would I put my mask on first?

The answer is of course a simple one. You cant look after your children until you properly look after yourself first. This fact is also very true in our fight for better mental health I thought. How can we properly look after anyone else in our lives if we don’t know how to look after ourselves.

It is important to put yourself first when you are suffering with poor mental health. By looking after number one you make yourself a nicer person to be around so everyone benefits.

There is nothing wrong with taking time out for yourself, it is not being selfish. Its the first step to recovery and finding the real you will promote better mental health and self confidence.

I have spent most of my life jumping from one relationship to another. A fact I put down to not wanting to be alone, however this one thought made me realize that I didn’t need anyone else to be truly happy. What I needed was to take the time to look after myself first.

 

 

 

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Child Mental Health: The Tell-Tale Signs

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall health, and it is just as important for children as it is for adults. As a parent, it is essential to be aware of the signs that may indicate that your child is struggling with their mental health. In this article, we will discuss some of the tell-tale signs of mental health problems in children.

Changes in Behavior

One of the most significant signs that a child may be struggling with their mental health is a change in their behavior. For example, if your child is usually outgoing and social but suddenly becomes withdrawn and isolated, this could be a sign that they are struggling with anxiety or depression. Other changes in behavior to watch out for include:

  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
  • Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
  • Increased irritability or anger
  • Changes in appetite or weight

Physical Symptoms

In addition to changes in behavior, children with mental health problems may also experience physical symptoms. These symptoms can include:

  • Headaches or stomachaches with no clear cause
  • Frequent complaints of feeling sick or unwell
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Changes in sleep patterns

School-Related Problems

If your child is struggling with mental health problems, you may also notice changes in their academic performance. For example, they may have difficulty concentrating in class, forget important assignments or tasks, or have trouble completing homework. They may also have behavioral problems at school, such as acting out or being disruptive.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Is Struggling With Mental Health Problems

If you suspect that your child is struggling with mental health problems, it is important to seek professional help. Start by speaking to your child’s pediatrician or family doctor, who can refer you to a mental health professional if necessary. It is also important to talk to your child and let them know that you are there to support them and help them get the help they need.

Conclusion

Child mental health is a serious issue that should not be ignored. By being aware of the signs that your child may be struggling with mental health problems, you can take the necessary steps to get them the help they need. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and it can make all the difference in your child’s life.

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Working Like Crazy: Living with Bipolar Disorder in a High-Pressure Environment

Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that can make it challenging to navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. For those working in a high-pressure environment, the added stress and demands of the job can exacerbate bipolar symptoms, making it difficult to maintain a stable mood.

The Challenges of Bipolar Disorder in the Workplace

Individuals living with bipolar disorder may experience intense mood swings, from episodes of extreme energy and euphoria (manic episodes) to periods of intense sadness and low energy (depressive episodes). These mood swings can make it difficult to maintain a consistent work performance, which can lead to job loss or decreased job satisfaction.

Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health conditions can create additional challenges for individuals with bipolar disorder in the workplace. Some may feel ashamed or fearful of disclosing their condition to their employers or coworkers, which can impact their ability to receive necessary accommodations and support.

Tips for Managing Bipolar Disorder in a High-Pressure Environment

While living with bipolar disorder in a high-pressure environment can be challenging, there are strategies that individuals can use to manage their symptoms and maintain their work performance. Here are some tips:

Develop a Treatment Plan:

Working with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan is crucial for managing bipolar disorder. This may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress-reducing techniques.

Stick to a Routine:

Establishing a routine can help manage bipolar disorder symptoms. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day, eat meals at regular intervals, and schedule regular exercise and relaxation time.

Communicate with Your Employer:

Talking to your employer about your bipolar disorder and any necessary accommodations can help you feel more supported in the workplace. This may include flexible work hours, reduced workload during periods of intense symptoms, or a quiet workspace to reduce sensory overload.

Monitor Your Mood:

Keeping a mood diary can help you track your moods and identify patterns. This can help you and your healthcare provider adjust your treatment plan as needed to manage bipolar disorder symptoms.

Practice Stress-Reducing Techniques:

Stress can trigger mood swings in people with bipolar disorder. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, helping you manage your bipolar symptoms in a high-pressure environment.

Conclusion

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially in a high-pressure work environment. However, by working with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, sticking to a routine, communicating with your employer, monitoring your mood, and practicing stress-reducing techniques, you can manage your bipolar symptoms and maintain your work performance. Remember, seeking professional help is crucial for managing bipolar disorder symptoms, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

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Living with Bipolar Disorder: Tips and Strategies

Understand Bipolar Disorder

Understanding bipolar disorder is the first step in managing this condition. Learn about the different types of bipolar disorder, their symptoms, and how they are treated. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control and make informed decisions about your treatment.

Develop a Treatment Plan

Developing a treatment plan with your healthcare provider is essential for managing bipolar disorder. A treatment plan may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress-reducing techniques.

Stick to a Routine

Establishing a routine can help manage bipolar disorder symptoms. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day, eat meals at regular intervals, and schedule regular exercise and relaxation time.

Avoid Triggers

Identify and avoid triggers that can cause mood swings, such as lack of sleep, stress, and alcohol or drug use. Avoiding triggers can help prevent manic and depressive episodes.

Track Your Mood

Keeping a mood diary can help you track your moods and identify patterns. This can help you and your healthcare provider adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Build a Support System

Building a support system of friends and family members who understand bipolar disorder can be beneficial. You may also want to consider joining a support group to connect with others who are living with bipolar disorder.

Practice Stress-Reducing Techniques

Stress can trigger mood swings in people with bipolar disorder. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Monitor Medication Side Effects

Some medications used to treat bipolar disorder can cause side effects. It is essential to monitor these side effects and talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that can be challenging to manage. However, by understanding the condition, developing a treatment plan, sticking to a routine, avoiding triggers, tracking your mood, building a support system, practicing stress-reducing techniques, and monitoring medication side effects, you can effectively manage bipolar disorder and live a fulfilling life. Remember, seeking professional help is crucial for managing bipolar disorder symptoms, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

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How to Live with Anxiety: Tips and Strategies

Seek Professional Help

If you are experiencing anxiety symptoms, it is essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, can provide support and guidance for managing your anxiety symptoms. They can also help you develop a treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is crucial for managing anxiety symptoms. Self-care can include activities such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and spending time outdoors. Self-care can also include activities that you enjoy, such as reading a book or listening to music.

Identify Triggers

Identifying your anxiety triggers can help you avoid or better manage situations that may cause anxiety. Some common triggers include social situations, work-related stress, or financial concerns.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Anxiety can often lead to negative thinking patterns, such as catastrophizing or assuming the worst-case scenario. It is essential to challenge these negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic thoughts.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Breathing and relaxation techniques can help you reduce anxiety symptoms. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga can help you calm your mind and body.

Stay Connected with Supportive People

Staying connected with supportive people such as family, friends, or a support group can help you manage anxiety symptoms. Talking to others who understand what you are going through can provide comfort and reassurance.

Stay Active

Staying active, both physically and mentally, can help you manage anxiety symptoms. Engaging in regular exercise, learning a new skill, or participating in hobbies can help distract you from anxious thoughts and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living with anxiety can be challenging, but there are many strategies and techniques that can help manage anxiety symptoms. Seeking professional help, practicing self-care, identifying triggers, challenging negative thoughts, using breathing and relaxation techniques, staying connected with supportive people, and staying active are all effective strategies for living with anxiety. Remember that anxiety is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment and support, you can improve your quality of life.

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How to Live with Depression: Tips and Strategies

Seek Professional Help

If you are experiencing depression symptoms, it is essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, can provide support and guidance for managing your depression symptoms. They can also help you develop a treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is crucial for managing depression symptoms. Self-care can include activities such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and spending time outdoors. Self-care can also include activities that you enjoy, such as reading a book or watching a movie.

Build a Support Network

Building a support network of friends and family can be helpful in managing depression symptoms. Having someone to talk to or spend time with can provide emotional support and help alleviate feelings of isolation.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Depression can often lead to negative thinking patterns, such as thinking that things will never get better or that you are worthless. It is essential to challenge these negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic thoughts.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals can help you feel a sense of accomplishment and provide motivation to continue working towards your goals. It is important to set goals that are achievable and not too overwhelming.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help you focus on the present moment and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness can also help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings and learn to accept them without judgment.

Get Involved in Activities

Getting involved in activities that you enjoy can be beneficial for managing depression symptoms. Joining a club or volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and help you connect with others who share your interests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living with depression can be challenging, but there are many strategies and techniques that can help manage depression symptoms. Seeking professional help, practicing self-care, building a support network, challenging negative thoughts, setting realistic goals, practicing mindfulness, and getting involved in activities are all effective strategies for living with depression. Remember that depression is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment and support, you can improve your quality of life.