Life is not a straight line. We all go through ups and downs and this can cause our mental health to decline from time to time. Especially during the past year, when life might have challenged us more than ever, mental health has been a huge issue among many people. Nothing to be ashamed of and definitely not a reason to sit down and accept you’re feeling like crap. In this blog, we’ll talk you through the possible causes of depression, anxiety or stress and what you can do to change this.

What causes mental health to decline?

Before diving into the possible causes of declining mental health, it’s important to acknowledge that there are no good or wrong reasons for you to struggle with your mental health. Everybody is unique and is going through different things. The possible causes we’re naming are the most common, but there are many more reasons for your mental health to be affected.

According to the NHS, these are the most common causes of declining mental health:

1. Coronavirus

As mentioned earlier, for many people the coronavirus has had a great impact on their mental wellbeing. The uncertainty of the virus and its health issues, the continuous lockdowns that didn’t seem to end and potentially even the loss of friends or family members who have died from the virus. Now that everything is slowly opening up again, it’s okay if you’re scared, it’s okay if you don’t want to participate in social activities yet and it’s okay if you feel overwhelmed. Do everything at your own pace!

2. Bereavement and traumatic events

Experiencing traumatic events can have an enduring, long-lasting effect on your mental health. Everyone deals with trauma in their own way but just in case you need to hear this: seeking help is not a weakness, others are happy to help you. 

3. Health issues

This one has played a big part in the past year as well. You might have suffered from COVID-19 yourself or know someone who did. Whether it is severe or mild, it could have a big impact on how you feel.  

4. Life changes

Big or small life changes can cause feelings of depression, anxiety or stress. If you’re getting a new job, moving into a new apartment or having a baby, these are all things that can cause your mental health to wobble. Whether your mental health issues are big or small, allow yourself some time to adjust to the new situation. 

5. Money, work and housing

Worrying about your financial situation, work issues or your housing situation can have a negative effect on your mental health. Talk to people around you and try to collaboratively find a solution.

6. Personal lives and relationships

One of the most important things in our lives is having personal relationships. Whether it’s with friends, family or a loved one, our social life has a great impact on how we feel on a daily basis. If you’re going through a breakup or divorce, chances are high this will have an impact on your mental wellbeing. Getting over such a thing takes time, but time will heal. 

7. Smoking, drinking, drug use and gambling

Excessive smoking, drinking, drug use and gambling can contribute to poor mental health. People who are struggling with this often find themselves in a vicious circle. The substances help you to feel better for a short period of time, but in the long term they can really harm your wellbeing. 

Change your habits

Depending on the severity of your mental health issues, you will find help in different things. Changing your habits, however, can often be a small way to contribute to improving your mental wellbeing. By simply changing small things you do on a daily basis, it’s possible to feel better overtime. 

Aromatherapy has proven to be effective in triggering the limbic system in your brain, which deals with emotions and memory. By triggering the limbic system, aromatherapy can help you to switch between moods. Aromatherapy uses different essential oils that have a specific scent. Take a conscious moment to stop, then inhale the scent deeply and slowly breathe out. 

If you’re struggling to sleep due to depression, anxiety or stress, our SLEEP WELL Aromatherapy Balm can help you to quickly fall into a deep sleep. If you’re in need of something to reduce your stress level, we recommend our DE-STRESS collection. Our LOVE Candle and HAPPY Balm are also incredible if you’re looking for ways to feel better. The LOVE collection helps to feel more emotionally connected to yourself and others, which helps you to feel more love. The HAPPY collection uses fresh notes of lemon and grapefruit to instantly lift your spirits and feel more positive.