In the middle of a Januray lockdown, we could all use a message of hope and positivity. Jigsaw Dublin City volunteers have provided just that.
They have been working to create a rolling gallery in the windows of the service. The aim is to spread a message of hope to passersby or on social media.
How would I be tested for ADHD without going to a doctor? Where would you recommend going?
-Caitlin
Hi Caitlin,
Thank you for reaching out today. Unfortunately, there is no way to get a diagnosis for ADHD without going to see your GP and/or a specialist. This is because mental health conditions such as ADHD are complex. It takes time and training to assess each person’s individual symptoms and experience.
I don’t feel like myself anymore, like I’m stuck in a looking glass trying to break free. I can’t talk to anyone and I feel alone. I hate the fact that I know if I try to talk to anyone it will be around school the next day. I want to tell people who I really am that I don’t want to be in a perfect ken and barbie marriage when I’m older I just want barbie. The bad part is I can’t figure out if I’m lesbian or bi I’m so confused I feel like no one will accept me. I don’t know what to do and I need some advice?
-silver123
Hi Silver123,
I know how lonely and isolating it can feel when we feel like we have no one to turn to. I am really glad you reached out for support today.
How do I know if I have actually have mental disorder? I don’t know what is real and what is not. Is it anxiety or am I just oversensitive about everything? Do I have depression even though I don’t have all the symptoms? How is a diagnosis given?
-Username
Hi there,
It’s healthy to feel a wide range of emotions in response to things that happen in your life. For example, you might feel sad after a bereavement, or anxious during exams. This does not mean that you have a problem with your mental health.
When life throws curve balls, we may find ourselves becoming impatient, wanting life to return to the way it was. We might want things to progress more quickly, or at least know what’s going to happen next.
There are times when our lives can take unexpected turns.
You or a family member may lose your job, illness might challenge your expectations of yourself or something you were looking forward to doesn’t work out the way you anticipated.
Unusual circumstances can cause feelings of impatience and stress to increase. You may find yourself overthinking things, feeling easily irritated by others, or less like yourself. Everyday problems can seem harder to solve.
While the new year is a time to look forward and plan ahead, December offers a chance to reflect on the year that’s gone.
Without a doubt, it’s been a tough and challenging year for many of us.
It’s completely understandable, we may focus on the toll the year has taken on our lives and plans. Missed opportunities due to social restrictions, unemployment and uncertainty about the future have led to challenging situations for young people. Some of the experiences we’ve heard about from young people this year are low mood, trouble sleeping and anxiety.
Jigsaw volunteer Sinead from Galway looks back on her experience of the past year (2020).
Many face-to-face mental health services are now offering support through text, telephone or video-based platforms.
Technology provides great opportunities. But, it can feel daunting connecting with a clinician or counsellor in a new format. There are a few things to bear in mind if you access online therapeutic support or online counselling.
In this article, you will find information on:
Christmas can be the most wonderful or the most stressful time of the year, depending on your situation and outlook. Expectations can be high around this time of year and minding your own mental health should be a priority.
In this article you will find:
Jigsaw services and Live Chat will be closed from 5 pm on 23 December, reopening on Tuesday, 4 January 2022.
Here are some services that can support you in the meantime:
