Minding our mental health and wellbeing during a time of great uncertainty can sometimes prove to be quite difficult - and Mayo Mental Health Association has some tips to follow.
It is important that we look after our mental health, the same way we would our physical health. Why? Physical health and mental health are intrinsically linked. You cannot have one without the other. If we are not looking after our physical health, our mental health can deteriorate, and the opposite is also true.
When addressing our overall health and wellbeing, it is helpful to be aware of the Five Ways to Wellbeing which can be worked into our everyday lives.
Connect - With people around you. At present physical connection may not be possible but that does not mean we cannot connect in other forms. Connect with family, friends, co-workers, be that over the phone, zoom, text or postcard.
Be active – Do what you can when you can. Ensure it is something that suits your physical ability, and that you enjoy doing it.
Keep learning – Try out something new. Take on something new at work or at home. Set yourself a new goal that you will be happy reaching. It doesn’t have to be anything extraordinary. Start small.
Take notice – Take notice of your surroundings. Take in the world around you. Be present and aware of your feelings and experiences in the here and now.
Give – Doing good for someone else or for yourself has been shown to be beneficial for your mental health and wellbeing. Ring that person you haven’t spoken to in a while. Smile at a stranger. Give your time to others who may need it. Give yourself time.
