Scruffy's Mental Health - Signs to look out for Update

🧠 Scruffy C’s Mental Health Signs to Look Out For

Scruffy says: “Sometimes our feelings change in ways that are hard to explain. They don’t always shout — sometimes they whisper. That’s why I carry a special card of signs, so we can notice them together.”

🌧️ Emotional & Behavioural Changes

• 😞 Persistent sadness or hopelessness — “When I feel empty, tearful, or want to hide away.”

• 🎭 Extreme mood swings — “When my feelings jump suddenly between happy, angry, or upset.”

• 💥 Outbursts or tantrums — “When I yell, cry, or lash out because my feelings feel too big.”

• 😰 Excessive anxiety or fear — “When I worry all the time, panic, or avoid people.”

• 🚪 Loss of interest — “When I stop enjoying hobbies, friends, or things I used to love.”

  
  

🛌 Physical & Daily Functioning

• 🌙 Changes in sleep — “When I can’t sleep, sleep too much, or my sleep feels broken.”

• 🔋 Fatigue or low energy — “When I feel drained, even after resting.”

• 🍽️ Appetite changes — “When I eat too much, too little, or my body changes suddenly.”

• 📚 Difficulty concentrating — “When I can’t focus, forget things, or struggle to decide.”

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🚨 Risk Signs

• 💔 Self‑harm or suicidal thoughts — “When I talk about wanting to disappear or not be here.”

• 🍷 Substance misuse — “When I use alcohol or drugs to try to hide my feelings.”

• 🌌 Paranoia or detachment from reality — “When I hear or see things that aren’t there, or feel far away from myself.”

  
  

🧸 Scruffy’s Reflection

“At first, I thought mental health signs would be loud and obvious. But Christopher reminded me: they’re often quiet, gradual, and hidden. That’s why noticing small changes — in mood, sleep, or behaviour — can be the first step toward sanctuary and support.”

📞 Helplines for Support

For Kids:

• Childline: 0800 1111 — free, confidential, 24/7

• SHOUT: Text 85258 — free, confidential, 24/7

For Grown‑Ups:

• Samaritans: 116 123 — free, confidential, 24/7

• HOPELINE247: 0800 068 4141 — for under‑35s or anyone worried about someone