Be brave enough to notice when things don’t feel right
Sometimes life feels a bit off. Maybe you’re not sleeping well, drinking more than usual, snapping at people you love, or feeling flat and disconnected from the things that used to bring joy.
Noticing these moments - in yourself or someone close - is a quiet act of courage. It’s how change begins.
We all have times when things don’t feel quite right. It might show up as tension, restlessness, or a sense that something isn’t working - even if you can’t put your finger on it.
It’s easy to brush these feelings aside or explain them away as stress or a rough patch. But paying attention early is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. You don’t have to wait for things to fall apart before reaching out.
Looking after your mental health isn’t just for times of crisis - it helps you stay steady, connected, and able to cope with what life brings.
Being brave enough to notice is about trust — trusting what your gut and heart are telling you. You don’t have to have it all figured out before you act.
If things feel off, try starting here:
Take a quiet moment to check in with yourself: How am I really going today?
Notice patterns - sleep, drinking, anger, fear, isolation.
If something doesn’t feel safe, or you’re worried about someone’s safety, reach out for help straight away.
If you’re not sure how to help a friend, start simple: “You haven’t seemed yourself lately - want to grab a cuppa?”
Small steps, like talking to someone or calling a support line, can make a big difference over time.
Noticing doesn’t mean labelling or fixing. It means being honest with yourself about how things really feel.
You might notice you’re:
Relying on alcohol or distractions to cope
Feeling angry, withdrawn, or anxious most of the time
Walking on eggshells around someone at home
Avoiding friends or activities you used to enjoy
Sometimes, it’s not about you - it’s about sensing that someone close to you isn’t okay. Maybe they’ve become quieter, seem fearful, or don’t feel safe in their own home.
These are all signs that something deeper might need attention.
You don’t have to wait until you have the right words or a perfect plan. You just have to be brave enough to notice - and to believe that things can get better.
