Time to talk mental health
Tick, tick, tick, tick, BOOM!
Feeling like a ticking time bomb, where something small can trigger a strong emotional reaction, can be a sign of emotional or mental distress. These reactions can be influenced by various factors such as lack of sleep, hormone imbalances, the weather, or events happening in one’s life.
The limbic system is a group of brain structures that are involved in the control and coordination of emotions, behaviours, and memory. The main structures of the limbic system include the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala. The hypothalamus plays a role in regulating hormones that are important for survival, such as heart rate and breathing. The hippocampus is involved in memory and spatial navigation, while the amygdala is responsible for attaching emotions to memories and events.
Mental illness can affect an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and social abilities. Depression, for example, is associated with changes in chemical transmitters in the brain that can affect mood, motivation, and behaviour. The hippocampus, a structure in the limbic system, has been shown to shrink in people with depression.
Overstimulation from technology and artificial lights and sounds can also make it difficult for the limbic system to process and respond appropriately to all the signals the brain receives. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking professional help or talking to a trusted friend or family member.
There are also self-care strategies that can help, such as getting enough sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness. Remember that everyone has their own way of coping, and finding what works best for you is key.
It’s important to talk about mental health and seek help if needed. A specialist can provide an unbiased perspective and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include therapy and/or medication. Antidepressant medication can help improve mood and increase motivation, but they may have side effects, and it may take time to find the right one. Antidepressants are not addictive but speaking to your doctor is important when you decide to stop taking this medication to ease unwanted symptoms.
Finally, it’s important to remember that seeking help is a brave and important step. There are organisations such as Beyond Blue and SANE Australia that can provide additional information and support. Remember you are not alone, reach out for help if you need it.