Mental Health
Stress and Depression
Everybody feels down sometimes, its part of life, but if you start to feel down or depressed for long periods and it’s stopping you from getting on with your life you may need to get help.
Sometimes when you are down or stressed there is a particular problem, for example - you’re not getting on with your family; you’re worried about exams; you have money problems; or you’ve split up with a boyfriend or girlfriend. In this case by tackling the specific problem you will eventually feel more positive about life.
At other times though there may be a whole range of problems and feelings that are dragging you down and you can’t see a way out. Signs that it’s all getting too much for you can include:
- Arguing with friends or family
- Feeling tired a lot and not wanting to go out
- Crying a lot
- Having trouble sleeping
- Feeling you want to harm yourself
- Thinking no-one likes you
- Eating a lot more or a lot less than usual
- Stealing things or getting into trouble
Getting Help
The first step may be to talk to someone about the way you are feeling. Your Connexions personal adviser can suggest sources of help, advice and counselling or if you would prefer you could ring a helpline. Your doctor (GP) may also be able to help.
Chill out and listen to advice and tips on dealing with stress from TheSite.org
Click here to listen to advice on coping with stress
Exam Stress
It’s normal to feel a bit stressed in the weeks and months leading up to exams – but you need to keep things in proportion. Careful planning is half the battle.
- Have confidence in yourself
- If you aim for perfection try not to worry if things aren’t quite perfect
- Get help from your teacher if you don’t understand anything
- Talk about the worries you have
- Remember there is life after exams however well you do!
If you need more info or just somebody to talk to, check out the listed web sites or call one of these local organisations for advice and info:
LAMP Leicester Action For Mental Health
0116 255 6286
Open Door Young People’s Counselling Service
0116 223 2397
Last Updated:
26-Jun-2007
