Do you feel tense, anxious, gloomy or often lonely — and would you like to better understand what is going on with you? Or are you worried about your child, partner, friend or family member and looking for ways to deal with their symptoms, offer support and take good care of yourself? At MentalBalance.co.uk you will find reliable information about mental health issues, developed by professionals at Arkin, a mental health care institution in the Amsterdam-Amstelland region. Psychologists, psychiatrists and experts share their knowledge and experience so that you can discover what helps you regain balance — for yourself or for someone you love.

At MentaalBalans.nl, you will find, among other things:

• Self-tests to find out how your mental health is doing
• Online courses on coping with stress, anxiety or feelings of gloom
• Exercises and tips to sleep better, relax or break through negative thoughts
• Articles on topics such as worrying, self-confidence and resilience
• Information for loved ones who wish to support someone

Talking can help you feel better. Tell someone how you feel and what is important to you in life. For example, you can talk about important questions such as ‘What gives my life meaning?’ and ‘What do I really find important?’.

There are several things you can do to feel better, such as:

• Bring regularity to your days: Getting up, eating and going to bed at fixed times gives your day structure and reduces stress.
• Exercise every day: Being outdoors every day, for example walking or cycling, provides positive energy and helps you feel better. If walking is too much, try light exercises at home or in your neighbourhood.
• Eat three healthy meals every day and avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Ensure you relax sufficiently: Do something every day to relax, such as walking outdoors, cycling, exercising, listening to music, or engaging in a hobby.
• Continue doing things that energise you.

Call your GP for an appointment if you experience one or more of the following:

• Your psychological symptoms are getting worse.
• You are taking steps to live a healthier and more positive life, but you still do not feel any better.
• You can no longer do everyday things, such as going to work or fulfilling other obligations.

Together with your general practitioner, you will discuss a number of things, such as:

• Whatever symptoms you have: Talk about your feelings, such as gloominess, anxiety, anger or sadness.
• Impact on daily life: Indicate whether your symptoms affect everyday activities, such as your relationship, family, work, education or hobbies.
• What kind of help is best for you: Together with your general practitioner, you decide what kind of help suits you best, so that you can start feeling better.

In the case of mild psychological symptoms, your GP can treat you themselves or refer you to a mental health nurse (POH-GGZ). In the case of more serious symptoms, your GP may refer you to mental health services (GGZ), for example to a psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist.