World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day. Mental health is such an important aspect of my life personally, as a carer and in a professional role as hypnotherapist and mindfulness teacher. I feel passionate about mental health and the need to reduce the stigma and prejudice associated with mental illness. Sadly, many people are fearful about discussing their mental health struggles yet 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem at some point in our lives. For the benefit of anyone experiencing difficulties at the moment, I have listed 5 ways in which you can take care of your emotional health and well-being:

1. Acknowledge your feelings. Take some time to sit quietly and notice and observe how you are feeling. Are you feeling stressed? Are you feeling anxious? Is your mood low or are you feeling depressed? What is troubling you? Acknowledging and connecting with our feelings is the first step to taking control of them rather than feeling overwhelmed by them.
2. Prioritise self-care. Do whatever makes you feel better within yourself. When I feel stressed I need to do something physical; it might be housework, gardening or exercise. Remind yourself about something you really enjoy then make the time to do it.
3. Go for a walk and connect with nature. Walking in green, open spaces is therapeutic for mind, body and spirit. Try to connect with nature by noticing the sights and sounds in the natural environment. Autumn is a wonderful time of the year. I like to walk through piles of dry leaves on the ground and notice the sound of them crunching beneath my feet. Deeply breathe in the fresh air and imagine any worries or concerns being lifted from your shoulders as you exhale.
4. Time is a very precious resource but the most important thing we can do is to make time for ourselves. Endeavour to make time to rest mentally and reduce stimulation overload. Give your brain and your mind a break. Switch off the smartphone, laptop, PC, tablet or TV for a while and do something else instead. You may choose to spend some time in meditation, listening to some calming music, chatting to friends or family, engaging in a relaxing hobby or pastime or reading a book.
5. Talk! Don’t keep your feelings bottled up inside. Please find a trusted friend, colleague or family member to talk to about how you are feeling. If you are feeling suicidal, are experiencing suicidal thoughts or hallucinations then arrange an appointment with your GP as soon as possible or contact your local NHS mental health crisis team.

Finally, if you find it difficult to relax, to switch off mentally and you would like to do learn how to do that, then please get in touch.