As someone that suffers with anxiety like many others, it is a topic I feel passionate about and although I believe the stigma surrounding mental health is reducing its something that still needs a lot of work.
One in three people will suffer from a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Young people increasingly face added pressures due to things such as zero hours contracts and universal credit. It shouldn’t be like this.
Despite the additional awareness a lot of people feel that they cannot speak out about how they feel at the risk of being judged. It’s so important for me to find balance in my life. Whilst I work hard at work, I have learnt ways to manage stress and understand the importance of having hobbies outside of work.
I’m very fortunate that I have a good friendship group that I know I can talk to. My main advice this mental health week and a small way you can make a difference is simply by asking someone how they are, taking an interest in their day and making them feel valued. It can mean so much to someone that is suffering. With the ease of communication today, nobody needs to feel as though they have no one.
