Do you require more urgent crisis support?

This page provides general advice for someone who has poor mental health. If you are concerned that you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please click this link to visit our ‘Dealing with suicidal thoughts‘ Help & Resources website page.

I have poor mental health continued

Physical symptoms

• You feel tired most of the time
• Your heartbeat is consistently faster or more irregular than usual
• You often feel lightheaded or you are experiencing dizziness
• You’re experiencing constant headaches, chest pains or muscle tension
• You have a loss of appetite

Emotional symptoms

• You’re feeling anxious, tense, angry or afraid
• You’re often tearful and your mood is constantly low
• You’ve become particularly sensitive to criticism
• You’re lacking in confidence and self-esteem

Cognitive symptoms

• You are often feeling tense or nervous
• You find you’re unable to relax
• You’re becoming forgetful, finding it hard to concentrate and making mistakes
• You are worrying more, particular about the past or the future
• You suddenly find yourself being tearful
• You are struggling to sleep

Changes in behaviour

• You’re no longer enjoying leisure time
• You’re not looking after yourself – eating, showering, grooming
• You appetite has changed and you may be over or under eating
• You don’t seem to be able to concentrate at work
• You’re finding it difficult to maintain relationships
• You’re worried about trying new things
• You easily and frequently become angry and short-tempered

Most of these symptoms are typical of someone suffering with high levels of stress and some degree of anxiety. Of course, if these symptoms become more severe and include feelings of dread, hopelessness or even suicidal ideation, then you could be experiencing anxiety or even depression.

It’s important to seek help if these symptoms escalate or persist for any period longer than 2 weeks.