How do I know if I should be concerned about my worrying, sadness or stress?
It’s normal to have many emotions. But if you’re having trouble with your day-to-day life because of your emotions, thoughts or feelings, your mental health may be affecting the quality of your life.
Consider talking with your health care provider if any of the following are affecting you:
- not wanting to spend time with people
- arguing more with your partner, friends or family
- fast changes in your mood (mood swings), feeling irritable or easily frustrated
- no interest in things you usually enjoy
- having trouble focusing or concentrating
- problems with your memory
- muscle tension or headaches
- changes in your eating habits (either eating more or eating less, eating fewer kinds of food)
- changes in your personal hygiene (washing more or less than usual, not brushing your teeth)
- changes in sleep (either sleeping more or less than usual)
- using more tobacco, alcohol or drugs to cope
Getting help when you first notice the symptoms of depression or anxiety is very important. Depression or anxiety that lasts for a long time can have serious effects for you and your family, and can be harder to treat.
Needing help doesn’t mean you’re weak, or that you won’t be a good parent. The earlier you ask for help, the sooner you can start feeling better.
Some ways to cope with stress include:
- eat regular meals
- eat a variety of foods and drink water throughout the day
- take time every day to relax, rest and get enough sleep
- have regular physical activity
- reach out to family or friends
- talk to people in your social network
