In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Week 2021, we wanted to share with you 4 ways to care for your mental health going forward.
Mental health is a topic that many people discuss and openly talk about, but often, when mental health becomes noticeably bad or scary, we start to shy away from talking about it so openly. It is important to remember that there are so many ways to get support for your mental health and there are countless resources you can provide for those around you who may be struggling.
During these times when mental health becomes ‘more serious’ we notice how it is absolutely just as important as physical health. Poor mental health can affect all aspects of your life, from your personal relationships to your health, your work or school or Uni life and more.
This mental health awareness week, remember to put yourself first and take some time out to do something you love and be with the people you care about the most.
So, with that in mind, here are 4 ways to care for your mental health this #MHAW2021.
Get out into Nature
This year, the Mental Health Foundation chose nature as the theme for #MHAW2021.
The theme was chosen after studies found that being able to visit green spaces helped 42% of the population and that over the course of the pandemic, going for a walk outside has been the top coping method for 59% of people.
There are lots of ways to connect with nature, especially here in Cumbria. You could go for a walk, sit outside, tend a houseplant or simply just appreciate your outdoor surroundings a little more than you normally might.
Practice some Self Care
Sometimes life can become overwhelming. It might be uni, work or school deadlines looming, friend-group drama, further Covid updates, or something else entirely stressing you out and it's important to remember in these situations that your mental health takes priority.
Practicing self-care and putting yourself first isn't a selfish act. You could take some time out to practice a hobby, talk it out with a friend or do some exercise to boost your mood.
Check who you’re following
While it's super important to minimize your time spent on social media, we know that right now, the pandemic has made many people feel more dependent on social media.
So instead, we ask you to have a look through who you're following. If there is, a person, an organisation, a brand or other that is making you feel miserable, hit the unfollow button.
You are in control of your social media, so remember to tailor it in a way that is mindful, of your mental health!
Reach Out if you’re feeling low
If you are feeling extremely low, it is important to reach out to a trusted person around you to let them know how you are feeling. Talking about how you feel can ease your distress greatly.
It might be a family member, a friend, your romantic partner, a support line or even a teacher or professional you know and trust.
Support lines you can contact:
Samaritans everyone: 1165 123
Papyrus under 25s: 0800 068 4141
Childline under 19s: 0800 1111
Mental Health Resources:
Sources:
"Wave 10: Late February 2021." Mental Health Foundation https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/research-and-policies/wave-10-late-february-2021. Last accessed 14 May. 2021.
“Emotional Health.” American Psychological Association, www.apa.org/topics/emotion. Accessed 14 Jan. 2021
“Mental Health.” World Health Organization, 2 Oct. 2019, www.who.int/news-room/facts-in-pictures/detail/mental-health.