Today marks World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is ‘Make mental health and well-being for all a global priority’.
It’s a chance to talk about mental health, how we can look after our mental health, and how important it is to talk to someone if you are struggling.
Mental health issues can take many forms, and everyone can experience different feelings and emotions. But it is important to understand that you are not alone. There are so many people around you who can support you.
Looking after your mental health and well-being is essential to living a happy and healthy life. Making small changes can significantly improve how you feel. Here are ten top tips for looking after your mental health.
1. Connect with others
Spending quality time with your friends and family or talking to someone about how you are feeling can help improve your mental health and well-being. You can chat with your friends online, call them or even see them in person.
2. Spend time outdoors
Spending time in nature can generate positive emotions and feelings. Being outdoors will not only help you stay more present but will help reduce negative feelings and emotions.
3. Live a healthy life
A healthy lifestyle is important for both your physical and mental well-being. Being active, enjoying the outdoors, and eating a healthy balanced diet can all impact how we feel. You could try a new sport with your friends.
4. Do something for yourself
Whether it’s a hobby or learning something new, make sure to take the time to do something you enjoy every day. Even if you spend 30 minutes doing this, you can help improve your mental health and well-being.
5. Get a good night’s sleep
Sleep is so important for many reasons. When we sleep, our body recovers and resets. Good quality sleep can make a big difference in how we feel mentally and physically. Aim for 8 hours of sleep a night. To help, try turning your phone off 30 minutes before you go to sleep to allow your brain to relax.
6. Reframe unhelpful thoughts
Often the way we think can have an impact on the way we feel. Negative thoughts can become negative emotions. When you can recognise these negative thoughts, you can take steps towards thinking about things differently.
7. Be present
We often worry about the future and ‘what if’, this can cause us to worry about things that we often have no control over. Try and be in the present and you will gain a greater understanding and perspective of your feelings and emotions.
8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you are struggling and need support, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are people all around who are here to support you. That could be your teachers, your family, your friends, or someone else.
9. Be kind to yourself
You are doing your best so remember to be kind to yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t achieve something or messed up, life is for learning lessons and growing. Treat yourself how you would treat others.
10. Remember to have fun!
We all have responsibilities, but it is so important to remember to take some time to have fun. Do something you enjoy, whether it’s spending time with friends or catching up on your favourite Netflix show.
If you are struggling, please ask for help. You can access help and support from different organisations.
Samaritans
Mind
Young Minds
You can also speak to your teachers.
Remember to be kind to yourself and others today, and every day.
