I bet you wouldn’t admit to your mates that you blubbed when England were knocked out the World Cup, would you?

Men are notorious for keeping their emotions hidden and not talking
about what’s bothering them.  We all need good mental health, it’s
just as important as physical health. How we feel about ourselves
is so important.

Mental health is about how we think and feel about ourselves and
others and affects how we manage, communicate and form and sustain relationships. Changes will happen all through your life, and that’s fine, but when those changes somehow get out of control problems can start.

A mental health problem is any problem that messes about with how we think and feel. It can be temporary, such as losing someone close, but it
is important to recognise that we all have mental health needs, whether
or not they are diagnosed as a mental illness.

Most of us feel at some time stressed, anxious, worried or afraid. But there are many positive things to help you cope:

• Talk about it – it can help to share your feelings. If you feel there
  is no one to talk to it’s okay to ring a helpline.

• Get involved – meeting new people and getting involved can
  make a difference for you and others.

• Drinking alcohol to deal with problems will only make things worse.
  If you do drink, do so in moderation and avoid binges.

• Relax – try and make time for things that help you unwind. 
  Or alternatively do something physical like gardening or
  something creative such as writing or cooking to stop
  you feeling down.

• Keep in touch with family and friends as they are important especially at difficult times – you don’t have to struggle alone.

And remember, if you have any concerns about mental health related issues – your GP is there to help.