MENTAL HEALTH

The World Health Organization describes mental health as a state of wellbeing that allows people to cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to their community. It is more than the absence of a diagnosed condition.

Mental-health difficulties are common and can affect anyone. They are shaped by a mix of biological, psychological, social and economic factors.

Depression and anxiety are among the most common difficulties. NICE guidance sets out how depression in adults should be assessed and treated, including talking therapies and, in some cases, medication.

Feeling low, worried or overwhelmed at times is a normal human experience. What tends to matter clinically is how intense it is, how long it lasts and how much it interferes with daily life.

These are experiences some people may recognise. They can have many causes and are not a diagnosis.

• Low mood, loss of interest or reduced enjoyment that persists over weeks rather than days.
• Persistent worry, tension or physical symptoms such as disturbed sleep or appetite changes.
• Difficulty concentrating, withdrawing from people, or finding usual tasks harder than they were.
• These signs can have many causes, including physical health conditions and life circumstances — they do not on their own indicate any particular condition.

• Speaking to someone trusted can reduce isolation and make the next step easier.
• A GP is a good first contact and can discuss options including talking therapies. In England, NHS Talking Therapies can also be accessed by self-referral.
• Keep a note of what has changed and for how long — it helps a professional understand the picture.
• If someone's safety feels at risk now, urgent help is available at any hour.

• Listen more than you advise, and let the person set the pace of the conversation.
• Avoid minimising language, and avoid describing anyone as broken, weak or attention seeking.
• Ask directly what kind of support would be useful, and stay in contact over time.
• Encourage professional support without making it a condition of your care.

• NHS — Mental health services
• NHS Talking Therapies (England, self-referral)
• NHS — Find a GP
• Samaritans — free, 24/7, call 116 123
• NHS — Where to get urgent help for mental health
• NHS 111 — health advice, 24/7

• WHO — Mental health
• NICE NG222 — Depression in adults: treatment and management
• NICE NG225 — Self-harm: assessment, management and preventing recurrence