Well-being Advice
There are many things you can do to ease the symptoms of common mental health problems. The first step is accepting how you feel and valuing yourself, with kindness and self-respect. The next step is trying to find a technique to improve how you are feeling:
- Learning how to relax is important. Relaxation and breathing exercises are helpful; Yoga and Pilates for example could to help you unwind.
- Changing your diet may help ease your symptoms. Too much caffeine can make you more anxious than normal, can disrupt your sleep and also speed up your heartbeat.
- Drinking plenty of water also ensures that you are refreshed, and has been shown to improve state of mind.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which have been shown to make feelings of anxiety worse.
- Strive to get sufficient sleep. If you are tired, you are less likely to be able to control any anxious feelings, and are at greater risk of developing depression.
- Regular exercise will help you combat stress and release tension. It also encourages your brain to release the chemical serotonin, which can improve your mood.
- Build a support network. Surrounding yourself with positive people is a good way to improve your mood and provide emotional support. Family and social connections can also provide new opportunities by making plans or supporting new activities.
- Cultivate resilience.
You may have to try several techniques to find the method that works best for you. However, if you have already tried self-help techniques and they aren’t working, you should contact your GP for further support and guidance.
Remember seeking help is a sign of strength and a positive step towards a healthier you.
In a Mental Health Crisis call 111 for a quick, effective response.
Self Help
The Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign provides many suggestions to improve general wellbeing and mental resilience; you may try a personalised Mind Plan or read more on wellbeing tips. CLICK HERE for more.
Further Reading
Mental health information, factsheets and leaflets may be found on a number of useful websites; for specific subjects see the links in the table below:
Subject
Web link
