Feeling anxious, lonely, or stressed? Discuss it..
Do you often feel scared, gloomy or lonely? Are you under a lot of stress? Do you feel like you're not good enough? There are many people who know how that feels. They can support you. So talk about it with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member or your GP.
Call for help immediately if you want to hurt yourself or are thinking about suicide:
- Call 113 Suicide Prevention: 0800-0113
- Call 112 in case of immediate danger
What are psychological complaints?
Mental health issues are common. They can make life less enjoyable and cause problems with everyday activities. Sometimes they can also lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches, palpitations or stomach ache.
How do psychological complaints arise?
There may be several causes, such as:
- Problems at home, in your relationship or at work
- Health problems or prolonged stress
- Not taking enough time for yourself
- Using alcohol or drugs
Sometimes hereditary factors play a role: the symptoms themselves are not hereditary, but you may be more susceptible to them if they occur more frequently in your family.
How can you tell if you are experiencing mental health issues?
Mental health issues can manifest themselves in various ways. For example, you may find yourself becoming irritated more easily or feeling gloomy. You may find it more difficult to concentrate and maintain your focus. Some people notice that they cry more often or have trouble sleeping. You may also find yourself drinking more alcohol, for example to take your mind off your problems or to numb unpleasant feelings.
Psychological complaints can sometimes lead to mental health conditions. Examples include obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders.
What can I do if I have mental health issues?
Visit MentaalBalans.nl for reliable information and tips.
Do you feel tense, down, anxious or often lonely? Or are you worried about someone close to you? At MentaalBalans.nl, you’ll find reliable information and practical tips on mental health. The information has been developed by professionals at Arkin, a mental health organisation in the Amsterdam-Amstelland region.rnrnYou’ll find, amongst other things, self-assessments, exercises, online courses and explanations on topics such as stress, worrying, sleep and resilience. Loved ones can also find information and support here.
Discuss your symptoms
Talking can help you feel better. Talk about how you feel and what you think is important in life. For example, you can talk about important questions such as ‘what gives my life meaning?’ and ‘what do I really care about?’.
Take good care of yourself and bring balance to your day.
There are several things you can do to feel better, such as:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eBring regularity into your days: Getting up, eating and sleeping at set times gives your day a grip and reduces stress.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eExercise every day:Being outside every day, such as walking or cycling, creates positive energy and helps you feel better. If walking is too much, try light exercises at home or nearby.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eEat three healthy meals every day and avoid alcohol and drugs.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eMake sure you relax enough: Do something to relax every day, such as walking outdoors, cycling, exercising, listening to music or engaging in a hobby.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eMaintain doing things that give you energy.u003c/liu003ern tu003c/ulu003e
Help via your general practitioner
Call your GP for an appointment if one or more of the following apply to you:rnu003colu003ern tu003cliu003eYour mental health symptoms are getting worse.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eYou’re doing things to live a healthier and more positive life, but you still don’t feel any better.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eYou are no longer able to carry out everyday tasks, such as going to work or fulfilling other obligations.u003c/liu003ernu003c/olu003ernYou’ll discuss a number of things with your GP, such as:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eWhat symptoms you’re experiencing: talk about your feelings, such as low mood, anxiety, anger or sadness.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eHow this affects your daily life: explain whether your symptoms are causing problems with everyday activities, such as your relationship, family life, work, studies or hobbies.u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eWhat support is best for you: together with your GP, you’ll decide what support suits you best, so that you can start to feel better.u003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernFor mild mental health symptoms, your GP may treat you themselves or refer you to a mental health practice support worker (POH‑GGZ). If your symptoms are more serious, your GP may refer you to mental health services (GGZ), for example to a psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist.
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