It’s important to take care of yourself and your mental health, especially after the crazy year we’ve had. The pandemic has massively affected mental health levels across the UK. It’s so important that we look after ourselves and seek help when we need it. Practicing self-care is vital not only for our mental well-being but for our overall physical health as well. Here are some tips for coping with your mental health....
Talk about your feelings
It might sound like the most obvious thing to do, but for most people dealing with mental health problems, it’s hard. Find someone you can confide in, whether it’s a friend, family member, colleague from work or placement, a staff member or someone from a professional organisation. Remember, if you’re too scared to talk to someone you know, you can always ring up as someone anonymous to a helpline such as Mind.
Connect with nature
As the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is nature, why not try getting outside more! Nature and being outside was a huge help throughout lockdown, going for walks outside has been a key factor for dealing with stress through Covid-19.
Eat well
It’s easy to overindulge in takeaways, chocolate, sweets and other unhealthy treats, but that doesn’t mean you can’t eat these foods at all.
Your brain needs a mixture of nutrients from a balanced diet to function well, just like all the other organs in your body. Not only does a healthy diet keep you physically fit, it keeps you mentally fit too. We’re not saying you need a strict diet full of vegetables (as good for you as they are), it’s all about eating in moderation and not overeating bad foods.
Keep active
Exercise has a positive impact on your mental health. It doesn’t have to be a hardcore workout; it could just be a walk or run as long as it’s something that gets your heart pumping. Next time you’re feeling down, try and get yourself up and moving! Try putting together a good exercise playlist to listen to to help motivate you!
Stay connected
Don’t forget to regularly stay in touch with your friends. Even though things have been a bit different make sure you’re still checking in with your friends. Meet up, text or video call with your friends regularly- it will help boost your mood and give you something to look forward to.
Take time for yourself
Give yourself at least one hour a day to take time out and relax and do something for you. Whether it’s having a hot bath, sitting and watching TV or entertaining a hobby, do what makes you happy for at least one hour a day!
LOVE YOUR DAM SELF!
Accept who you are and love yourself. Stop comparing yourself to others and wishing you had someone else’s life and accept the life you have now. Don’t waste your best years trying to be someone else, enjoy who you are and feel good about yourself!