Waiting for anything can be stressful, but waiting for something as important as healthcare can be particularly anxiety-provoking. I think we are all aware NHS waiting lists are currently at their highest-ever level.
Uncertainty of any type is a major source of stress and anxiety. When we don't know what to expect, our minds start to race with all sorts of negative possibilities. We may worry about the outcome of our treatment, the financial impact of being unable to work, or the emotional toll of being in pain or discomfort.
The longer we wait, the more time we have to dwell on these negative thoughts and feelings. This can lead to a vicious cycle, where our anxiety worsens and makes it more difficult to cope with the wait. In addition, virtually any medical condition can be exacerbated by stress.
For people who are already experiencing mental health problems, waiting for healthcare can be even more difficult. So, I thought I would tell you about a great app you can download, called ‘Hub of Hope’ it’s available free on Google Play and Apple App store.
The app contains a wealth of information if you need help with your mental health. You can simply tap in your postcode and what you need help with, and it will provide services within your area. As well as the NHS services, it also lists smaller charities and support groups etc., services you may not come across on a normal web-search. There are lots of free services and other useful information too.
I have talked a fair bit about men’s mental health this month, I like to keep the balance right for all my readers, however I can’t let this month pass without mentioning ‘Movember'. Have you grown a moustache for it? I’ve seen quite a few while I have been out and about in the area over the past few weeks, which is really encouraging.
There is a strong emphasis on mental health and well-being this year, and it is good to see that hundreds of construction workers across the North are set to receive mental fitness and well-being training. Within the construction industry, the suicide rate amongst labourers is more than 10 times greater than for higher skilled and management.
This raises the subject, again, about men not being willing to talk when they are struggling with their mental health. I’ve mentioned ‘Andy’s Man club’ and ‘Talk Ourselves Well'. I understand not everyone feels ready to go to a face-to-face group, so if you are struggling you could give Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) a call on 0800 585858, open 5pm to midnight daily. Just having a simple conversation with someone can make all the difference.
Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of MHFA England.
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