How to check you’re okay

What are the signs your mind - AKA your mental wellbeing - might need a little TLC?

Your mind is like a dashboard with warning lights, and sometimes, those lights flicker to let you know it needs some extra care. Here are a few signs that might mean your mental health might be asking for a little more attention:

• Changes in Mood: Have you noticed feeling sad, worried, or unusually irritable for longer periods? Your emotions might be trying to tell you something important.

• Difficulty Sleeping: Are you having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or even stay Or maybe you're sleeping too much? Changes in your sleep patterns can signal stress or anxiety.

• Low Energy Levels: Feeling tired all the time, even after a good night's sleep? Sometimes mental strain can leave you feeling drained.

• Loss of Interest: If activities you used to love suddenly don't excite you anymore, or you find it hard to concentrate on things you usually enjoy, it could be a sign of your mental health needing attention.

• Changes in Appetite: Notice changes in how hungry or full you feel? It might not just be about food—emotions can affect appetite too.

• Avoiding People: Are you pulling away from friends and family or avoiding social activities more than usual? Feeling disconnected can be a sign of emotional stress.

• Physical Symptoms: Sometimes mental health issues show up as physical problems, like headaches, stomachaches, or frequent sickness.

Remember, these signs don't mean something is wrong with you - and they arent the only signs. They're like alarms saying, "Hey, pay attention, something might need a little extra care right now."

If you notice these signs in yourself or others, it could be your or their mind sending a signal for help. Talking to someone you trust, like a friend, a family member, a teacher, or a professional (such as a counsellor), can make a huge difference. They can help you figure out what's going on and find ways to support your mental health.

Your mental health matters, and taking care of it is just as important as taking care of your body. So, if you notice these signs, give yourself a little extra love and reach out for support—it's a brave and important step towards feeling better.