In recent news, hit artist Chappell Roan and F1 star Lewis Hamilton have openly discussed their struggles with mental health, helping to start conversations and break down stigma related to mental ill-health.

F1 superstar Lewis Hamilton has revealed that he has faced mental health challenges throughout his life, including periods of depression. Similarly, global artist Chappell Roan, who was diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder in 2022, has courageously stepped back from public appearances to prioritise her mental wellbeing.

When high-profile figures like Chappell Roan and Lewis Hamilton share their mental health journeys, it plays a critical role in breaking down the stigma surrounding these issues. Their openness encourages others to have conversations about mental health and can inspire people to seek help and realise they are not alone. 1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland will experience mental illness at any one time, and 1 in 8 worldwide live with a mental health disorder.

Roan recently shared that along with her Bipolar II diagnosis, she has been battling severe depression. Despite not feeling "sad" in the traditional sense, she explained, "I didn't think I had [depression] because I'm not sad, but I have every symptom of someone who's depressed."

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

AWARE NI recommends seeking help from a GP if any of the following symptoms last for more than two weeks:

An unusually sad mood that doesn't go away.

Loss of enjoyment and interest in activities that used to be enjoyable.

Tiredness and lack of energy.

Other potential symptoms include:

Loss of confidence or poor self-esteem.

Feelings of guilt when not truly at fault.

Wishing not to be alive anymore.

Difficulty making decisions and concentrating.

Moving more slowly or becoming restless and agitated.

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.

Loss of interest in food or overeating, leading to weight loss or gain.

To learn more about depression and mental health, AWARE NI has a lot of online resources which can help you learn more about the signs and symptoms of mental ill-health and self-help techniques to help you maintain positive mental health. You can find out more by clicking HERE.

Furthermore, AWARE NI's 23 mental health support groups across Northern Ireland, including 2 online, allow you to speak freely about your feelings and help you realise you're not alone. Find your nearest support group HERE.