Ten top tips

Today is day 2 of Mental Health Awareness Week.

We’re sharing 10 simple tips from the Mental Health Foundation that can help support and maintain good mental health.

Let us know if you have any other actions which help to support your mental health. Tomorrow, we will be sharing another story from one of our customers, Gareth.

1. Plan something to look forward to

Making plans for things we enjoy increases our sense of hope, which is important for our mental health. Whether it's big or small, making a plan can create excitement and boost your mood.

2. Eat well

Eating a balanced diet is one of the simplest ways to look after your mental health. Small changes like staying hydrated and having healthy snacks such as fruit can build great eating habits.

3. Get closer to nature

Spending time in nature can boost your mood, lessen stress, and help you concentrate. A twenty minute walk in a nearby park can lift your mood instantly.

4. Get good sleep

Good sleep improves brain function, lifts your mood, and is good for your overall health. Taking time away from screens, reading a book and building a bedtime routine can all help you wind down for a good night’s rest.

5. Get creative

Spending time on creative activities is a great way to help ease stress and anxiety. Carve out some time to listen to music, paint, sing, or whatever you enjoy most.

6. Move regularly

Regular exercise boosts your mood and can raise your self-esteem. It’s also an effective stress management technique. Whether you like to walk, do some yoga, or vigorously clean the kitchen, it all counts.

7. Try mindfulness

Being fully aware in the present moment can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. Aim to notice the colour of the sky, the sound of leaves, or the feeling of your feet on the ground.

8. Make time for friends

Taking the time to phone a friend, or catching up over a tea or coffee can build good relationships which are vital for a feeling of purpose and belonging.

9. Be kind

Bad days happen to everyone. If you’re having a tough time, remember to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. You’re doing the best you can.

10. Talk things over with someone you trust

It can take a lot of courage to tell someone how we are feeling or what we’re finding hard. Just talking things through with a person we trust can feel like a relief and make us feel less alone.