Stressed, unhappy, anxious...

Everyone feels bad some of the time.

But sometimes bad feelings get out of control.

When someone gets very unhappy or depressed, they may become suicidal (want to hurt or even kill themselves).

This can happen slowly or very quickly.

Stop doing, start talking

If you are feeling very anxious, stressed or unhappy, you should do three things as soon as possible:

• Stop any dangerous activities (like drinking, taking drugs or driving a car)
• Talk to someone (a friend, worker, family member, helpline)
• Go to your GP (Doctor) and explain how you are feeling

Be careful who you talk to, as some people may make you feel worse. This is one of the reasons it can be best to call a helpline, as the people who staff helplines are trained to listen.

CRUCIAL: if you are feeling down you can call the Samaritans on 0845 7 90 90 90 (national number) or 01865 722122 (local Samaritans) or Childline on 0800 1111.

If a friend needs help

If someone you know is depressed or in a crisis, you can help:

• Do take them seriously.
• Do listen, but not all the time.
• Do encourage them to ask for help and ask for help yourself.
  
• Don't try to convince them (or yourself) that everything is alright.
• Don't try and solve their problems, give them advice, or sort things out.
• Don't tell them to get over it or pull themselves together.

If you believe that your friend or someone else may get hurt, get help right away. The Samaritans can advises you about what to do.

Key Link: The Samaritans

Look after yourself

Helping a friend in a crisis can be very upsetting and stressful, so you should consider getting help yourself. Talk to your GP, counsellor, Youth Worker or a helpline, like the Samaritans.

Related: Stress, Depression, Not Feeling Well?

Share your stories

We're looking for your stories. What are your tips for staying fit and healthy? How did you get along when you accessed different kinds of health service? Have you helped deliver health services, raise awareness or educate your peers?

Whatever health stories you have, we'd love to hear them, so email and let us know

Links

These websites will help you find health advice and services:

• NHS Direct
  Health advice and information 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Young Minds
  Information for young people about mental health and emotional well-being
• Sort out Stress
  Site for young men about sorting out stress and anger

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