Little Tasks, Big Rewards! Article | Brady Braddock, BSA Today Editor
Mental illness is no joke – it affects people from all walks of life and often comes without warning. Overwhelming depression and anxiety can make even the smallest of tasks feel like an uphill struggle. Please remember that mental illness is often invisible, and a smile can hide a lot. That happy-go-lucky colleague who makes your day that much brighter might be fighting an inner battle that you know nothing about. Talk to people, ask them if they’re actually OK – and if you’re going through tough times, please reach out to someone, however difficult that may be, as help is at hand! Mental Health Crisis Helplines Here’s a little ditty from our Editor...
Little tasks give huge rewards,
No achievement is ever too small.
When you get up – first, make your bed. This little task puts you one step ahead. Switch on the shower and step inside.
Don’t think for a minute, lose track of time. Brush your teeth and comb your hair.
Open your wardrobe, decide what to wear. Go to the kitchen, choose something to eat.
Next, put on your coat, slip shoes on your feet.
Lock the front door, wave your loved ones goodbye. You don’t have to smile, as long as you try. Get into work, set tasks for the day.
Try not to worry if things don’t go your way.
If your day’s super hectic as your workload rolls in. Just remember, little tasks help you win!
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If you’re in crisis and need to talk right now, there are many helplines staffed by trained people ready to listen. They won’t judge you, and could help you make sense of what you’re feeling. Samaritans To talk about anything that is upsetting you, you can contact Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call 116 123 (free from any phone), email jo@samaritans.org or visit some branches in person. You can also call the Samaritans Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day). SANEline If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day). National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK Offers a supportive listening service to anyone with thoughts of suicide. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK on 0800 689 5652 (open 24/7). CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) You can call the CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day) if you are struggling and need to talk. Or if you prefer not to speak on the phone, you could try the CALM webchat service. The Mix If you’re under 25, you can call The Mix on 0808 808 4994 (3pm–midnight every day), request support by email using the ‘Email us’ form on The Mix website or use their crisis text messenger service.