Mental health at Christmas.

Christmas time isn't always a happy time for everyone and if you are struggling with your mental health it can be a lonely time. I just wanted to take a moment to say that you are never alone, whoever and wherever you are. If you need someone to talk to them you can find my email on the side bar. There are also some great organisations you can reach out to. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. We are human beings, not superheroes and trying to deal with stuff on your own makes it so much harder. 

(I copied this list from this post on Den of Geek as there are some really useful contacts here if you need them)

Young Minds is dedicated to the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. Parents concerned about their youngsters can call 0808-802-5544. Here is its website.

CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, aimed at young men feeling unhappy. It has a web chat service, and freephone phone lines. You can find its website here.

MIND is an organisation that aims to make sure nobody has to face a mental health problem by themselves. You can find its website here. The MIND infoline is 0300 123 3393.

SANE does amazing work too in battling the stigma that seems to go with mental health. Between 6pm and 11pm, you can give them a call on 0300-304-7000. They welcome calls from anyone affected in any way at all by mental illness and challenges. Here is SANE's website.

The Samaritans do such wonderful work. You can talk to them around the clock on 116 123, a freephone number in the UK and Ireland. Or drop an email to jo@samaritans.org – you’ll get a reply within a day or two.

The Depression Alliance can help those around you gain a better understanding of what depression is, and how it affects you. It has a directory of support groups around the country, here. It's merged with MIND, but for the minute, has a separate website.

PAPYRUS is a group that supports teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal. You can call them on 0800 068 4141.

If you’re dealing with a bereavement, or struggling with grief, then CRUSE Bereavement Care can be found here.

If you’re struggling with a relationship, then RELATE is a great organisation. You can find it here. 

Finally, I just wanted to wish all my readers a lovely Christmas if you celebrate it x