Dr Zoe reveals the key signs to look for if you think a friend is struggling
Do you know what to look for?
Dr Zoe Williams joined us to talk about the importance of mental health and what we should look out for if we think any of our friends might be struggling, and how to help them.
Speaking to Fleur East, James and Matt on the Saturday Morning Show, Dr Zoe revealed there are quite a few things we should look out for if we think someone we know might be struggling. While she explained: "We all have mental health", she said if you have a gut feeling, even the slightest hint, something might be wrong, then ask your friend if they're OK.
This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week (9th - 15th May) was loneliness. Loneliness is affecting more and more of us in the UK and has had a huge impact on our physical and mental health during the pandemic. Get more help and advice on mental health.
"Listen to that urge and take action," Dr Zoe explained, going on to say: "You might just save somebody's life. Sometimes it's subtle, people can be struggling, they might not tell anybody, and you know, we hear stories about people who sadly do take their own lives, and nobody knew. Nobody knew they were struggling, so, even the slightly little hint, you can't do anything wrong by asking and checking in."
Dr Zoe went on to say that there are other things you can look out for, including people not looking after themselves as they would normally, for example, dressing differently, not putting make-up on, when they would normally, or having their haircut regularly, if that's something they normally do.
The TV presenter also said we need to look after ourselves too, because if you don't look after yourself you can't look after others. If you don't enjoy the things that you used to enjoy, then that is a symptom of depression. "Just ask yourself a question about that, (laughing like you used to). Just be curious about that, and see what you need to do."
Ways to get help if you or others need it
‘Where’s Your Head At?' is our campaign to drive parity between mental and physical health. if you need to speak to someone you will find a list of useful numbers and websites here.
How to listen to our interview with Dr Zoe about mental health
You can listen to Hits Radio Breakfast's Fleur East's interview with Dr Zoe again on Hits Radio website.
How to listen to Fleur East on Hits Radio
Catch Fleur East every weekday morning on Hits Radio from 6am. Wake The Fun up with Fleur joined by the biggest names in music, movies and entertainment.
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You can find Hits Radio on FM and DAB. You can listen right here on our website, download our free app for iPhone or Android, or ask your Smart Speaker to 'play Hits Radio'.
Small acts of kindness that can make a big difference...
Say "Hello"
Whether it's to family or your partner as you get home or to people you're speaking to at work (or even online working). Don't just go from task to task. Take the time to greet people.
Say "Please" and "Thank you"
It might sound obvious but when we're busy it's an easy one to forget. We all know how annoying it is when somebody doesn't do this to us, yet it's one of the things we might let slip so easily.
Take the time to listen
We've all done it, we have something to say back and we just can't wait to jump in and have our turn, so much so we end up tuning out of what's just been said. Take the time to listen that bit harder to people who are talking to you.
Turn off lights, water and plugs
This will save resources not just for the planet but for your pocket too!
Take the time to recycle
You can do the bit to help save money and save the planet by taking the time to wash out that jar or plastic container that you've used and send it to somewhere better than the rubbish tip.
Aim to message at least one of your friends every day and ask them how they are.
If you've not spoken to someone for a while, ask if you can give them a call or arrange to see them. Think about all that's happened in your life lately and try and catch up with a friend to find out about their life too.
Take time to reconnect with the older generation
Even if you don't live nearby your older relatives try giving them a video call, phone call, or letter. Of course we're sure they'd love a visit too.
Donate unwanted items or to charity
Cash for Kids supports children and young people affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, life-limiting illness and those who have additional needs. Visit the Cash for Kids website.
If you have items that you know are too good to throw away but that you'll never use, then consider donating them as your old stuff can become someone's new stuff!
We all have a Mental Health
Help us make a difference and commit to doing something kind by adding a pledge to our interactive map. Being kind has other benefits too – not only does it make others feel better, it gives our brains feel good endorphins (sometimes called 'helpers high') so there's no excuse not to #pledgekindness! Pledge your act of kindness here.
Give a gift with no expectation of something in return.
Whether it's your BFF, family, partner or just a friend you want to make feel special, spend some pennies or hand-make a gift for someone you love. Who says presents have to be just for special occasions?
Now read:
Share a Big Little Thank You for Mental Health Awareness week
Make your pledge of kindness here
Sign our petition to make Mental Health first aid compulsory