Maintaining your Mental Health

Many asylum seekers have been seriously affected by their experiences in their home country or while travelling to Ireland.

 

 

 

Be aware of the dangers of mental health problems developing and seek help if necessary. Specialist services, such as for the victims of torture, are available and your doctor can refer you to them if necessary.

Not sure if you or someone you know is living with mental health problems?

Experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviours can be an early warning sign of a problem:

  • Eating or sleeping too much or too little
  • Pulling away from people and usual activities
  • Having low or no energy
  • Feeling numb or like nothing matters
  • Having unexplained aches and pains
  • Feeling helpless or hopeless
  • Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
  • Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
  • Yelling or fighting with family and friends
  • Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
  • Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
  • Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
  • Thinking of harming yourself or others
  • Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school

Positive mental health allows people to:

  • Realize their full potential
  • Cope with the stresses of life
  • Work productively
  • Make meaningful contributions to their communities

What can I do to support my Mental Health?

There are acts of self-care that are proven to help us feel better and get through tough times. This is about you finding what works for you.

  • Keeping Active
  • Talking about your problems
  • Doing things with others
  • Eating healthily
  • Staying in touch
  • Drinking less alcohol
  • Looking out for others
  • Sleeping well

 

Where can I go?

For a listening ear and emotional support you can call the Samaritans on 116 123

You can visit www.yourmentalhealth.ie which is a new online resource that contains the most comprehensive online database of mental health support services ever developed in Ireland.  The site is a place to learn about mental health and how to support yourself and the people you love. You can find support services near you and learn about the little things that can make a big difference to how you feel.