Ways to Look After Your Mental Health
World Mental Health Day is a chance to pause and reflect on how we can look after our mental health.
There are many things that can affect our mental health, from everyday stress and pressures to major life events such as the death of someone close to us. While we can’t always control what happens in life, there are small things we can do to support our well-being.
Make time for yourself
When life gets busy, it’s easy to forget to make time for the things we enjoy. Whether it’s watching a film, reading, listening to music, going for a walk, or spending time on a hobby, making time for something you enjoy can help you switch off and recharge.
Stay connected
Spending time with friends, family or people who make you feel supported can have a positive impact on your mental health. Even if you don’t feel like talking about what’s bothering you, simply being around people can help you feel less alone.
Look after your physical health
Our physical and mental health are closely connected. Getting enough sleep, eating regularly, drinking plenty of water and getting some fresh air or movement can all help us feel better.
Ask for help
Sometimes, looking after yourself means recognising when you need some extra support. If you’re struggling, speak to someone you trust or seek professional help. Asking for support is an important part of looking after your mental health.
There is no single way to look after your mental health, and what works for one person may not work for another. The important thing is to find the things that help you feel supported and make time for them where you can.
If you’re looking for extra support, Nelson’s Journey has a range of free resources designed to help children and young people experiencing bereavement, as well as the people around them, which can be found along with more information and support here.
This World Mental Health Day, take a moment to check in with yourself. How are you feeling, and what could you do today to look after yourself?
