Category: Mental Health

National UK Inquiry Reveals 19% Increase In Suicide for People Living With Bipolar- With Bipolar UK

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Michelle Henderson: Unsplash)

Trigger warning: discusses suicide

The National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Safety in Mental Health (NCISH) released its Annual Report for 2025 last week, revealing that over the past decade, nearly 20% more individuals with bipolar disorder are dying by suicide due to shortcomings in the UK’s mental health system.

According to national charity Bipolar UK, the report provides stark evidence that specialist care is lacking, Lithium (an important mood stabiliser medication) is under-prescribed and suicide prevention measures are falling short.

The report highlights that from 2012 to 2022, there were 1,491 suicides by patients with bipolar, with an alarming 19% increase from 2019 to 2022. Despite Lithium being a clinically proven suicide prevention treatment for people with bipolar, only 39% of those who died were prescribed it and just 12% were receiving psychological therapy​.

This data echoes the findings and lived experience of Professor Tania Gergel, Head of Research at Bipolar UK, in her recent article in The Lancet Psychiatry where she said: “Globally, 15-20% of people with bipolar disorder die by suicide, with 30-60% making at least one attempt. These rates are not decreasing despite an overall decline in global suicide rates.”

According to the Nuffield Trust, there is set to be a £4.8 billion unfunded shortfall in the NHS England revenue budget for 2024/25, raising the prospect that without further funding, service cuts may be inevitable.

With bipolar increasing an individual’s risk of suicide by 20 times that of the general population, Bipolar UK is urging the government to commit to addressing health waiting lists and to invest money in creating a dedicated care pathway for bipolar to reduce suicide rates.

Simon Kitchen, CEO of Bipolar UK, said: “This report is devastating but not surprising. We’ve been shouting from the rooftops that people with bipolar aren’t getting the care they need and now the data lays it bare.

“Bipolar carries one of the highest suicide risks of any mental illness, yet specialist services are practically non-existent, and Lithium – the gold-standard treatment for suicide prevention – is underused. The time for excuses is over. We need real action, and we need it now.”

The charity has heard from its community of people living with the condition, who are concerned that they are unable to access psychiatrists, have little to no continuity of care and are not being monitored adequately when at high risk. There is also a lack of bipolar specialists in the UK, leading to people not receiving a correct diagnosis or waiting too long to receive one – all of which add to the risk of suicide.

Professor Gergel said: “Neither bipolar disorder nor suicide in people with bipolar disorder are research priorities, resulting in major knowledge gaps in both. This can and must change. The shocking statistics might well underestimate the prevalence of suicide in people with bipolar disorder, given the probability of death by suicide before treatment or accurate diagnosis.”

Adding to that, Simon Kitchen said: “Suicide prevention in bipolar requires a shift in both research priorities and clinical practice. We know lithium saves lives, but it is still under-prescribed. We know specialist care works, but most services are generic and fail to meet the specific needs of people with bipolar. Bipolar suicide is not inevitable, but without urgent action, people will continue to die.”

(image of Prof Gergel, Bipolar UK)

The NCISH report also revealed broader systemic failures contributing to preventable deaths. Alarmingly, patients with bipolar were more likely to:

  • Die within three months of being discharged from inpatient care, highlighting dangerous gaps in post-discharge support​.
  • Miss vital clinical appointments, often due to social isolation or side effects from medication, with 15% identified as non-adherent before their deaths​.
  • Experience extreme distress without access to psychological therapies, with only 12% receiving talking therapies​.

With more than a million people living with bipolar in the UK, the figures from this latest inquiry represent lives lost and has led Bipolar UK to call for urgent action, including implementing:

  1. Specialist bipolar services in every NHS region to ensure timely diagnosis, access to evidence-based treatments and care tailored to the complexities of the condition.
  2. Increased lithium prescribing, in line with NICE guidelines, ensuring every person with bipolar who could benefit from it is given the opportunity.
  3. Enhanced suicide prevention measures, including better follow-up after hospital discharge and targeted support for those who miss appointments or struggle with medication adherence.

Simon Kitchen concluded: “We need all UK health authorities and departments of health across the nation to act now because lives depend on it. The evidence is undeniable, the solutions are clear, and the cost of inaction is catastrophic. Specialist care, Lithium, and targeted suicide prevention measures can and will save lives.

“Bipolar suicide is a national emergency, and the upcoming 10-Year Plan is the critical opportunity to turn the tide. Bipolar-specific services are not optional; they are a lifeline.

“The government and NHS must act now, before more lives are lost to preventable tragedy. It is time to get it right.”

(image: Simon Kitchen, CEO, Bipolar UK)

For more information about suicidal thinking and bipolar, visit: Bipolar and suicide prevention

About Bipolar UK   

Bipolar UK is the only national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar. Bipolar UK provides a range of services, including information and advice, a network of support groups, an eCommunity, workplace training and telephone and email peer support. Bipolar UK also works in partnership with research organisations and campaigns for change to tackle critical issues. For more information, visit www.bipolaruk.org 

Veganism: How Compassion Shapes Our Emotional Wellbeing by Sadie Jade

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Hollie Usher Photography)

Being vegan means a person chooses not to use any animals products – whether that’s the food they eat, the clothes they wear, the products they use, even down to the entertainment they choose. This lifestyle choice is a philosophical stance and belief system that seeks to exclude all forms of exploitation and cruelty to animals.

I’ve been vegan for around 9 years now and speaking from experience as an empathetic and sensitive person, at times the world can feel a little overwhelming (understatement? Possibly). Don’t get me wrong, going vegan was the best decision for me. I am an animal lover at heart and deeply care about the environment, so being vegan enables me to live a life in harmony with my values. When I finally aligned my actions with my beliefs about animal welfare, I experienced a sense of relief and authenticity that had been missing before.

The problem is knowing the full extent of animal suffering at the hands of humans that really weighs heavy.

I remember the first time I truly connected with a cow. Looking into her gentle eyes, I saw an individual who was sentient and wanted to live, love, and be free from harm – just like any of us. That moment changed me forever. Now, walking past butcher shops or seeing leather goods in store windows can feel devastating, knowing a beautiful creature had their life needlessly taken for something we can source elsewhere with no suffering involved. These everyday encounters that are ordinary to most, serve as constant reminders of the disconnect between my values and society’s ‘normal’ practices.

This awareness has affected my relationships too. There was a time that social gatherings were tricky to navigate. Watching friends or family consume animal products while knowing what I know about factory farming creates an internal struggle: balancing my love for them with my ethical convictions. Sometimes it makes me so sad to know that, after all I have told them about animal suffering, they continue to choose to subject animals to it in the name of taste preferences.

However, this emotional challenge isn’t unique to vegans. Many people feel uncomfortable watching documentaries about animal agriculture or visiting slaughterhouses. This natural empathy exists in most of us, but marketing campaigns and industrialised food systems have created a psychological distance between our plates and the reality of animal suffering. The meat industry spends billions on advertising that presents happy animals on family farms, while the reality remains carefully hidden from public view.

The emotional challenges faced by vegans often stem from a place of deep compassion – a quality our world desperately needs more of, not less. Rather than viewing this sensitivity as a weakness, we can recognise it as a strength that drives positive change. Understanding that these feelings of distress come from a place of love and justice can help frame them in a more constructive light.

(image: Kerry McLaughlin Photography)

In my book, The Vegan Lifestyle Journal, I talk about the secrets to finding ways to channel our emotional sensitivity into positive action while maintaining our own wellbeing. This might mean setting boundaries, practicing self-care, celebrating small victories, and remembering that personal peace and advocacy for animals can coexist. After all, the goal isn’t to carry the weight of the world’s suffering, but to do our part in creating positive change while maintaining our own emotional balance.

For anyone feeling overwhelmed by awareness of animal suffering, remember that every person who chooses compassion contributes to a larger movement toward a more ethical world. While the journey may sometimes feel lonely or challenging, living in harmony with our deepest values ultimately contributes to better mental health and a more peaceful existence.

Sadie Jade is a Suffolk born author and public speaker who is passionate about making the world a better place for animals, people, and the environment.With almost a decade of experience in animal advocacy, Sadie is well known for delivering talks to thousands of people across the UK in schools and colleges, at community events and public speaking engagements such as podcasts and panel debates, and through the publication of her book and her guest articles for respected news outlets.

This blog is the view of Sadie Jade.

Arabella And The Worry Cloud Article On Parents News UK.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: E Segall/Shelley The Artist)

I am delighted to say that our children’s picture book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud‘ about a little girl with anxiety and how she manages her worries, is featured on Parents News UK website! Not only is it Children’s Mental Health Week but it is also Time to Talk day, where we share our stories about mental health.

Here’s a snippet of their thoughts:

‘Supporting children with anxiety, London-based author Eleanor Segall has drawn from her own childhood experiences to write Arabella and the Worry Cloud, a heartfelt picture book supporting children aged 5–8 who struggle with anxiety. Eleanor, who has lived with bipolar disorder since her diagnosis at age 16, aims to help young readers understand and manage their worries through relatable storytelling.

Arabella and the Worry Cloud introduces readers to Arabella, a seven-year-old girl who faces daily worries, from small tasks like putting on her socks to bigger fears about her cat or schoolwork. Her constant companion, the Worry Cloud, symbolises her anxious thoughts, teaching children that worries, like clouds, come and go.

Eleanor shares coping tools within the story, inspired by techniques that helped her manage her own anxiety. Through Arabella’s journey, children learn that even when caught in life’s “rainstorms,” the clouds will eventually clear.’

(image: E Segall/Shelley The Artist)

You can read the full article here. Thanks to all at Parents News UK!

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week with Place2Be: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Place2Be)

Did you know 1 in 5 children face mental health challenges? Let’s make a difference together this #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek by taking part and donating to Place2be if you can.

The theme of this year’s week is ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’, which is about encouraging children and young people across the UK to embrace self-awareness and explore what it means for them.

This year Place2be is partnering with Here4You, supported by the Walt Disney company and the Inside Out 2 characters to explore the theme.

I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression as a 15 year old, and had anxiety from a young age. I was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 16 and in a CAMHS unit in hospital in 2004. We know these days that more children are struggling, which is why awareness weeks like this are so important.

Through my kids book, Arabella and the Worry Cloud, I try to help children with their own anxiety to help them process their feelings with a trusted adult.

Check out: https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/ for more information and how you and your family/school can get involved with Childrens Mental Health Awareness Week.

Jami Mental Health Shabbat 2025 by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Jami charity)

This weekend is the Jami Mental Health Shabbat 2025. This is an initiative very close to my heart as I was a volunteer with this project from its inception in 2017-2018, helping to get the shabbat into communities. The Shabbat grew from an idea to be more open about mental health across Jewish communities in the UK, with Rabbi Daniel Epstein at the healm (and the brilliant team at Jami), to a nationwide yearly initiative in synagogues, schools and homes. It raises awareness of mental illness and distress, encouraging conversations and breaking down the stigma in our communities by placing this discussion at the heart of them, through lived experience and Rabbis speaking about it in their pulpit.

The Shabbat has other initiatives including hosting a shabbat meal and asking guests to donate to Jami instead of a gift, a toolkit with resources to use, Challah makes and an open mic night on Sunday 3rd at the Head Room Cafe for the whole community.

As Jami say, “Jami Mental Health Shabbat coincides with Parashat Bo. On this Shabbat we read about the plague of darkness, which can be likened to the experiences of many living with mental illness and distress. The parasha also talks about how the Israelites, full of hope, could see through the darkness into the light. This special Shabbat is an opportunity for us to encourage conversations on mental health, raise awareness of mental illness and distress and share ideas on how to support ourselves and others within our community. “

Over the years, my Dad and I have given our talk about our lived experience of bipolar for this shabbat and in communities to hundreds of people including Bushey United and Chigwell United Synagogues, Belsize Square Synagogue and Edgware Yeshurun Synagogue. We also have spoken at Limmud Conference in Birmingham to share our story and had a question and answer session. This wasn’t easy for me with my anxiety as you can imagine!

This year, for personal reasons we are taking a break from speaking our mental health story, but we both support this shabbat and amazing charity. You can also read our story in my book ‘Bring me to Light: Embracing my Bipolar and Social Anxiety’

If you’d like to take part in the shabbat this year, please go to www.jamiuk.org/jmhs .

Let’s keep raising awareness of mental illness and distress and shine our light to the world. No one should ever feel alone in their community due to mental ill health.

Love,

Eleanor

Dopamine Decor: How Your Interior Design Choice Influences Mental Wellbeing by Amy Jones

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Unsplash: Maiar Shalaby)

More and more people are putting time and effort into looking after their mental wellbeing, and rightly so. Most of these efforts focus on stress-reducing hobbies and social activities, but have you ever wondered if your interior design choices are influencing your mental health?

If the answer is no, it might be time to start considering how your home decor can be altered to achieve peak wellness. If you’ve no idea where to start when trying to turn your home into a sea of tranquillity, we’ve picked out a few areas of your home that could contribute towards your mental wellbeing.

Colour

(image: Unsplash: Marc Jodoin)

Blue 

As the colour of the sea and sky, blue is seen as a calm, soothing colour. It’s also an easy colour to incorporate into your home if you’re trying to make your home have a more relaxed vibe.

Darker shades of blue work perfectly for a feature wall and allow the colour to be the main focal point of the room. If you want to paint your whole room blue, lighter shades of blue work great and can promote an airy, outdoorsy feeling.

Purple

In some cultures, purple represents royalty whilst in others it is associated with peace and spirituality. However you see purple, it’s important to note that it’s becoming an increasingly popular colour in the interior design world.

When it comes to incorporating purple into your home, it’s often a case of less is more. Consider ways in which you can add a touch of purple rather than creating a fully purple room. Rugs, lampshades and cushions are a great way to introduce purple without overdoing it.

Green

Green is similar to blue in the sense that it can help bring the outdoors to your home, due to how we associate the colour with nature and greenery. Forest green and jungle green are great options if you want to go overboard on the green interior as they are less subtle shades.

Brighter greens should be reserved for kids’ bedrooms or playrooms. Alternatively, shades like lime can be used for smaller decorative ornaments that aren’t the main focal point of your home.

Nature

Nature and wellness go hand in hand. In fact, most mental health therapists would agree that spending time outdoors is great for our mental wellbeing. According to studies, there is a positive correlation between happiness and our connection to nature.

Obviously, we can’t spend all of our time outdoors so it’s important to consider ways we can bring nature into our homes. Adding plants throughout our home can improve style but can also improve air quality. Improving the air quality in your home can have positive implications for your mood, stress levels and sleep quality – all of which contribute to healthy mental wellbeing.

When choosing plants to add to your home, there are a number of factors to consider including how much sunlight and water different types of plants require. In addition, you’ll want to decide what size of plant works for your home. Larger plants work great in the corner of a room while smaller plants should be added to coffee tables and shelves.

Layout

A clear home can lead to a clear mind so it’s important to stay on top of your home’s cleanliness levels. It can be a good idea to focus on minimalism and create large open spaces in your home that are easy to keep on top of in terms of tidiness.

Be careful of adding too many items that only serve decorative purposes as this simply gives you more things to keep on top of and could easily be the start of your home becoming cluttered.

Our home can affect our wellbeing, so for positive mental health, its good to implement calming colours and layouts for a wonderfully relaxing home.

Amy Jones is a freelance writer.

Transforming Bedrooms Into Anxiety-Reducing Spaces For Kids by Amy Jones

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Kenny Eliason: Unsplash)

There is nothing more heartbreaking than to see your child suffering. What’s more, when their mind is playing tricks on them, and they’re experiencing spells of anxiety, it can leave you feeling helpless as the parent/carer. While you may be doing all the right things such as taking them to therapy and encouraging them to talk about their feelings, sometimes their environment can play a huge role in their emotions. Children spend a lot of their time in their bedrooms, especially when they’re feeling anxious about the outside world. Transforming their bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space could be the key to allowing them an environment to disconnect from ruminating thoughts completely.

Be sure to listen to what your children want for their bedrooms before taking the design into your own hands. If they believe a Minecraft bedroom will make them feel happy and give them a sense of security in their space, listen! Otherwise, consider the following tips for designing your bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space. 

Colour schemes 

Starting with the room’s backdrop, consider painting your child’s room a colour that inflicts a sense of calmness and serenity. There are a number of colours that are proven to create this mood, for example, cool colours such as blue, green and lavender grey are known to create a relaxing feel. Also, pastel shades of favourites such as pink and green are perfect for creating a sense of tranquillity. 

Connections to nature 

Nature has shown to have immense benefits for reducing anxiety, from going for walks to playing in the park, if your child is struggling to face the great outdoors, consider bringing it to them. For example, add touches of greenery in the space. There can be faux versions of vines winding round their bed, or perhaps give them real plants to take care of and give them a greater sense of purpose. If your child has been begging for an animal, why not start small and get them a fish? It has been proven that watching fish swim back and forth can relax the mind and ease muscle tension.

Blue LED lighting 

Lighting can be a hard element of the bedroom to influence. If your child’s bedroom is currently brightly lit with fluorescent light this may not be helping their state of mind. Blue light therapy has been raved for its ability to influence mood and the body’s biological clock. Dimming their bedroom lighting with blue lighting may support their night of rest. Several sensory light appliances can create this experience, in addition to adding texture to the projection that mimics ocean waves. 

Create “safe spots”

Sometimes, your child just wants to be alone, and that’s okay. Creating a safe space away from the world can be simple with the addition of a children’s teepee, or if your child has a bunk bed with underspace, make this area more private with curtains. Fill this space with comfy seating, pillows, and games for your child to play. It can be tempting to buy them an Xbox or PlayStation to enjoy in their bedroom, but this can worsen your child’s anxiety and keep their mind active when it’s time for rest. Keep technology away from their bedroom, and keep it comforting and quiet. 

Keep schooling separate 

Another mistake parents make with their child’s bedroom is adding a desk for them to complete school work. When your child is suffering from anxiety, school can often inflict feelings of discomfort or remind them of unpleasant experiences. Allow your child to do their school work downstairs where you can support them and be there for them. Allocated places for different activities can help them feel a sense of security. Reserve the bedroom for sleep. Having a small table and chair for your child to do artwork can act as a place to explore their creativity. 

Encourage rest & relaxation

Encouraging relaxation is essential when transforming your child’s bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space. This involves creating an atmosphere that promotes comfort and signals to your child that their room is a sanctuary for winding down and recharging. Start by investing in high-quality, soft bedding and cosy blankets that make your bed an inviting haven. Add plush pillows or weighted blankets, which are known to provide a sense of security and calmness.

(image: Pexels: Vika Glitter)

An anxiety-reducing space

Transforming your child’s bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space can have a profound impact on their emotional wellbeing. By focusing on calming colours, natural elements, thoughtful lighting, and creating safe and comforting zones, you’re helping to create a sanctuary where they can decompress and feel at ease. Remember, every child is unique, so it’s important to involve them in the process and tailor the space to their individual needs and preferences.

Small changes in their environment can make a big difference in their ability to manage anxiety and feel secure. While this is just one piece of the puzzle, pairing it with emotional support, therapy, and open communication can empower your child to navigate their emotions with greater resilience. A cosy, peaceful bedroom can become their haven—a place to relax, recharge, and truly feel at home.

Author Bio

Amy Jones is a freelance writer and enjoys writing a range of topics, from mental wellness to home renovation and loves researching the latest news and updates. Having worked with a number of different businesses, including Petite Lumeire, Amy is now a freelance writer looking to specialise in children’s mental and physical wellness.

SUNSHINE: A Cancer Journey. The Powerful New Book From Author Emily J. Johnson by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Emily J. Johnson)

Three years ago, I read and reviewed author Emily J. Johnson’s debut book ‘Pushing Through The Cracks, which details her family’s journey with mental illness. Emily then released a book called BELLY about her binge eating and how she found recovery.

I was saddened when I heard that Emily had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2023, after all she had faced. A lump found by chance at the doctor in her neck, led to her diagnosis. However, in true Emily style (she is a fighter), she not only went through a lot of trauma and medical treatment, but she has come out the other side to find her own SUNSHINE. The thyroid cancer diagnosis left her struggling to cope as she navigated the impact on her loved ones. During her treatment, a medical emergency lead to a profound experience in theatre that changed everything.

As you can see from the cover of this book, this is a story of hope after trauma and adversity. It’s a life-affirming story about love, hope, and rediscovering joy in simple things.

Emily returned to writing during her recovery, publishing her third book SUNSHINE, sharing her cancer journey. Once fully recovered, she re-trained as a mindfulness and meditation practitioner and will embark on her teaching practice in 2025, supporting cancer patients along with other members of her community in learning these beneficial practices. 

Emily is always helping others whether that is through her talent as an author and sharing her thoughts in writing and now through her work helping people.

The book is beautifully written and hugely eye opening about a cancer that does not get huge amounts of media air time. Emily goes through treatment and comes out the other side stronger. As she says,

‘A chance discovery leads to a shock diagnosis;.

A traumatic experience leaves me questioning everything.

But in the darkness, I discover the light. My light, my sunshine.’

SUNSHINE by Emily J. Johnson is a remarkable book and is out now on Amazon here.

(image: Emily J Johnson).

7 Important Facts About Depression Medication You Can’t Ignore.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Anthony Tran, Unsplash)

Explore 7 essential facts about depression medication, including types, benefits, side effects, and tips for safe use to support mental health.

Mental health issues like depression are on the rise globally. Medication can be very powerful for many to cope with symptoms, complicated feelings and chemical imbalances. The medication for depression helps even out chemicals in the brain so the symptoms of sadness, low energy, trouble concentrating, etc., lessen, but knowing how these medications work, what they can do for you, and what side effects they may have can make the trip a little easier. This guide covers seven key facts about depression medication to help you or a loved one make informed decisions for a healthier, happier life.

1. Types of Depression Medication and How They Work

Different types of depression medications work differently within the brain. The most common types of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, and atypical antidepressants. SSRIs are drugs that help increase serotonin, a chemical that affects your mood. Because they have fewer side effects than older medications, these are typically the first choice for treating depression.

SNRIs work similarly but affect two chemicals in the brain rather than one, and this may help some people respond better. Some other choices may have atypical antidepressants or tricyclics that work with different parts of the brain and are considered when other medications haven’t been effective. Everyone’s body and brain chemistry is different, so finding the best medication for you can take time.

2. Depression Medication is Often Part of a Larger Treatment Plan

Medication alone can assist, but it’s often most effective when combined with other forms of treatment. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps people understand and manage their thoughts and behaviors. Many doctors suggest combining therapy with medication for better results.

Depression also needs to be managed with lifestyle changes. Many people have seen their moods and energy increase by eating healthy, exercising, and getting the right amount of sleep. A mental health professional can help create a holistic treatment plan so you can address symptoms and acquire skills to overcome day-to-day hurdles.

3. Medication Takes Time to Show Results

The most important thing to know about depression medication is that it doesn’t work overnight. Most medications take about 4 to 6 weeks to have an effect. When someone is ready to be relieved, patience can be hard.

Your doctor may ask you to report any positive or negative changes during this time. Your doctor can use tracking how you feel to make any needed adjustments to the medication. It is also important to take the medication on a consistent basis because missing doses can slow or prevent effectiveness. If the changes feel slow, stick with the treatment, and you can get better, lasting results.

(image: Christina Craft: Unsplash)

4. Possible Side Effects of Depression Medication

Depression medication can be very effective, but it has some side effects. Nausea, fatigue, headaches, and sometimes weight changes are common. The effects of these medications vary from person to person and from medication type to medication type and often diminish over time as the body adjusts.

You must talk to your doctor if side effects are overwhelming or don’t improve. Your doctor may change your dose or have you switch to a different medication. Although most people say that the benefits of medication outweigh the initial discomfort of side effects, monitoring your experience and communicating with your doctor will help ensure a positive one.

5. Stopping Medication Requires a Doctor’s Guidance

It’s not recommended to stop depression medication abruptly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, and bad mood. Your doctor can instead help you taper off slowly, giving your body time to adjust. The method for doing this is called “tapering,” where the amount of the drug slowly decreases over time to try and avoid withdrawal.

Some people may feel better and think they don’t need their medication anymore. If you are thinking about stopping, talk with your doctor first. They can help you decide when is the right time and lead you through a safe process. Never stop the medication without a doctor’s advice; otherwise, you risk your progress.

6. Medication Can Be Safe for Long-Term Use with Monitoring

For others, depression medication is a short-term tool to use during difficult times. For others, ongoing symptoms require long-term medication. These medications have been used safely by many people for years under a doctor’s guidance. Regular check ins with your healthcare provider will ensure the medication is still working and that any side effects are being watched.

The doctors may also check for blood pressure or weight to ensure no other side effects in the long run. Depression medication can be a safe and influential part of long-term care if it is properly monitored and can help people live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

7. Depression Medication Isn’t a Cure but Can Support Recovery

Medication helps manage symptoms of depression, but it doesn’t ‘cure’ depression. Depression is often a condition that needs to be watched. Medication may help, but they work best combined with other strategies.

Working with a therapist, staying active, and connecting to supportive people are all very important for recovery. A complete, balanced approach will lead to better mental health, which in turn will decrease the chances of a relapse. This is just one part of the puzzle, alongside other medications that can help someone feel stable and work towards a healthier future.

Conclusion

Depression medication can be a helpful tool for managing symptoms and improving one’s daily life, but it’s important to know how the drugs work their magic, as well as their limitations. Knowing these seven key facts will help people make informed decisions and feel more comfortable using medication for their recovery. If medication is needed for a few months or some years, working closely with a medical provider will ensure medication is used safely and appropriately.

If you or a loved one is seeking help for depression and addiction treatment and you are in the USA, contact Virtue Recovery Las Vegas at 725-777-5685 for guidance on treatment options. Our team is here to support you on your journey to wellness.

This blog was written by a freelance writer and contains paid links.

Understanding The Connection Between Hair Loss And Mental Health.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Tamara Bellis)

For many of us, our hair is a part of our identity, a form of self-expression, and a source of confidence. So, when hair loss strikes, it can feel like a punch to the gut, leaving us feeling vulnerable, insecure, and even depressed.

But while hair loss presents real challenges, there are ways to face this struggle while protecting your mental well-being. Reframing your mindset, finding new ways to express yourself, and seeking support can help you regain control.

The Emotional Toll of Hair Loss

Hair loss can hit hard because it’s tied to how we see ourselves. Here are some reasons it can be emotionally challenging:

Loss of Confidence

Losing your hair can make you feel like you’re losing part of your identity or attractiveness. You might find yourself avoiding mirrors, skipping social events, or feeling uneasy at work.

The good news? You can take steps to rebuild your confidence. Start by seeing a doctor or dermatologist to figure out what’s causing your hair loss — whether it’s genetics, hormones, or another health condition. They can guide you toward hair loss treatments like minoxidil or hair restoration options.

Loss of Control

Hair loss can feel like an unpredictable journey, especially when it stems from factors like genetics, health conditions, or medications. This lack of control over the situation can leave you feeling frustrated and powerless. However, arming yourself with knowledge and seeking professional guidance can help restore a sense of agency.

Fear of Social Stigma

Society often equates a full head of hair with youth and attractiveness, making hair loss feel like a big deal. You might worry about judgment or feel isolated. Remember: hair loss is incredibly common, and embracing it on your own terms can help you regain confidence.

How Hair Loss Affects Mental Health

(image: towfiqu, Unsplash)

Hair loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can have a significant emotional impact. Here’s how it might affect you:

  • Anxiety and stress: Constantly worrying about your hair can create a cycle of stress. Unfortunately, stress can worsen hair loss (a condition called telogen effluvium). Breaking this cycle means addressing both the physical and emotional sides of the issue.
  • Depression: For some people, hair loss can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or even depression. It’s not just about appearance — it’s about feeling disconnected from yourself and others. If these feelings persist, talking to a therapist can help.
  • Social withdrawal: When you feel self-conscious about your hair, it’s easy to retreat from social interactions. You might avoid events, gatherings, or even everyday conversations because you feel like everyone is noticing your hair. Over time, this isolation can make you feel lonelier and less confident.

Supporting Mental Health During Hair Loss

Dealing with hair loss can be an emotional rollercoaster, but there are practical steps you can take to protect your mental health and rebuild your confidence.

Seek Professional Guidance

Therapists can help you work through the emotions tied to hair loss. Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help shift negative thought patterns and build resilience. Joining a support group — online or in-person—can also be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Explore Your Treatment Options

Today’s hair loss treatments offer more choices than ever. Depending on the cause, options might include medications, topical treatments like minoxidil, or even surgical procedures like hair transplants. Consulting a dermatologist can help you create a personalized plan.

Experiment with Alternatives

While waiting for long-term treatments to work, consider wigs, toppers or hairpieces. These options have come a long way in terms of comfort, quality, and appearance. They can provide a confidence boost and allow you to experiment with different looks without committing to permanent changes.

Prioritize Your Overall Health

Your overall health plays a big role in how you feel — and even in the health of your hair. A balanced diet with nutrients like iron, zinc, and biotin can support hair growth. Regular exercise helps manage stress and boosts your mood, which can also help with certain types of hair loss.

Lean on Your Support System

Talking to friends or family members you trust can make a huge difference. Sharing your feelings with someone who listens and offers encouragement can help you feel less alone and more supported.

Hair loss is a personal journey, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions as you go through it. The most important thing is to focus on what makes you feel empowered. Whether it’s exploring treatment options, connecting with supportive communities, or finding new ways to express yourself, you have the tools to take charge of your well-being.

No matter where you are in your journey, help is available. With the right support and resources, you can move forward with confidence.

This blog was written by a freelance writer and contains paid links.