Feeling anxious or down from time to time is normal, but if these feelings don’t go away, they might be part of something bigger like anxiety or depression. Understanding the signs can help you or someone you care about get support early on. 

Anxiety can feel like constant worry, stress, or even panic about everyday things. It might make your heart race or make it hard to concentrate, but there are ways to manage it. 

Recognising the signs 

Frequent feelings of panic, restlessness, or excessive worry about everyday situations. You might also notice physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, or digestive issues. 

Where to go for help

  • YoungMinds offers resources, helplines, and online communities where you can find support. Anxiety – YoungMinds.

  • Kooth is a free, anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing service. Home – Kooth.

  • Shout is a free and confidential text service for mental health matters. You can visit their website or text 85258 to speak to a trained volunteer if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Home – Shout 

  • Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or school counsellor can provide immediate relief and help you feel less alone. 

  • Reach out to your GP for a referral to a mental health specialist. Therapy and counselling can provide structured support and coping strategies tailored to your needs. 

Depression is a long-lasting low mood that affects your daily life. You might lose interest in things you once enjoyed or struggle with sleep, energy and motivation. 

Recognising the signs 

Signs of depression can include low mood that doesn’t go away, avoiding social activities, feelings of worthlessness, and changes in eating or sleeping patterns. If you notice these signs lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to seek help. 

Where to go for help

  • YoungMinds offers resources, helplines, and online communities where you can find support. Depression – YoungMinds.

  • Kooth is a free, anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing service. Home – Kooth.

  • Shout is a free and confidential text service for mental health matters. You can text 85258 to speak to a trained volunteer if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.  

  • Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or school counsellor can provide immediate relief and help you feel less alone. 

  • Reach out to your GP for a referral to a mental health specialist. Therapy and counselling can provide structured support and coping strategies tailored to your needs.