Today is World Mental Health day – and taking care of mental health is essential every day. Self-care can help all of us feel better day-to-day, as well as aiding recovery from more significant issues. Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive bath bombs, spa days and gym tripe. There are little ways to take care of yourself every day.
It’s also important to recognise when you need some support for your mental health – one in four people in the UK has a diagnosable mental health condition. Poor mental health is nothing to be ashamed of, and help is available for those who need it.
These tips from mental health charity Mind are free and accessible:
- Find ways to relax – this could be something small, like going for a walk, or having a bath
- Take a break if you need to – if a situation is overwhelming, try to get away and have a change of scene, even for a few minutes
- Do something you enjoy – make time for things that give you pleasure, like calling or visiting a friend, making a meal, listening to music or spending time outside
- Try mindfulness – Mind has lots of resources to help you learn how to practice mindfulness. There are also many free mindfulness apps to try
- Take a tech break – put your phone or laptop away in another room if you need to. Constantly being online can make you feel stressed
- Find a local class or group – Hull has a wealth of community groups and classes. Contact your local library, community centre or Family Hub (formerly known as children’s centres) to see what’s on offer. Lots of our local areas also have community facebook pages full of info on local activities
- Talk to someone you trust – being able to open up to someone you trust can help you manage your feelings
- Look after your body – eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and finding ways to be active are all beneficial. Being active includes things like walking, gardening and seated exercises
- Avoid drugs and alcohol – both drugs and alcohol are sometimes used to cope with difficult feelings, but in the long run, they make things worse
- Practice positive self-talk when you criticise yourself – telling yourself things like ‘I’m trying my best’, ‘it’s ok to make mistakes’ and ‘I’m learning’
- Get plenty of sleep – getting into a routine of winding down, switching off screens, a herbal tea and relaxing sleep environment can all help with getting enough rest.
Cllr Linda Chambers, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, said: “There are things we can all do day-to-day which put us in the best position to maintain our emotional wellbeing and mental health, and might be enough to manage everyday levels of anxiety or low mood.
“Self-care is fantastic and can make a real difference, but it’s not a substitute for getting help. It’s important to recognise the difference between a situation we can manage with some self-care and mindfulness, and the occasions we need more help.
“Hull has a wide range of help and support, including some especially for children and young people. If the tips above aren’t working it’s a good idea to talk to someone and get some help. More than one in four of us experiences mental health problems, so there is no shame or stigma in seeking support”.
Local charity Hull and East Yorkshire (HEY) Mind provides help for both adults and children. The offer includes group and one-on-one support and private counselling, as well as practical help getting into employment and accessing accommodation.
Speak to your GP about help with mental health, or visit Mind: Hull and East Yorkshire Mind – We are Hull & East Yorkshire Mind, the mental health charity
