If you feel a bit low, fed up and isolated then you are not alone.
Personally, I always feel a bit fed up by the end of January – and January always seems to last forever!
Rest assured, if you are struggling, you are not alone.
A lot of people feel low this time of year. GPs see more people for mental health problems in the winter months than any other time of the year.
Just remember things will get better.
We will come through these Winter days. The days will get longer (and warmer).
We will be able to go back to the things we are missing.
Many people experience feelings of being trapped, hopelessness, and worthlessness. When you do, just ask yourself ‘What do I do when things feel on top of me?’. This will remind you of the coping strategies that you normally use.
If you’re feeling low, then here are some tips that could help improve your mental wellbeing:
It is as important to look after our mental health as our physical health, and simple changes in the following areas can work together to make a big difference:
1. Recognise unhelpful thoughts.
Ask yourself if the thoughts you are having are helpful or not – is there another more helpful way to look at a given situation? Think about what you would advise a friend who was struggling, and then apply that same kindness to yourself.
2. Live in the moment.
It is easy to get stuck focusing on the past or worrying about the future, and sometimes we need to remind ourselves to be present and enjoy the “now”. Mindfulness and meditation or relaxation techniques can help. Try Headspace HERE.
3. Get plenty of rest.
We all benefit from a good sleep routine, but equally important is giving yourself enough “downtime” before bed, especially time away from blue screens. Try as much as possible to have a regular bedtime and get-up time.
4. Connect with others.
Isolation feeds mental ill-health, so ensure you make time to socialise with friends and family, or to connect with online communities where you feel comfortable and able to open up.
5. Enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Being as active as your physical health allows, and eating well, will contribute to a longer, healthier life but will also boost your mood and improve mental wellbeing too.
6. Self-care.
Do something for yourself, or simply have some “me time”, by spending a bit of time on the things that make you happy. That may be a hobby, taking up a new activity, spending money (only what you can afford!) on a treat, or simply taking time out to relax.
For more mental health tips or support visit Every Mind Matters.
Remember to be kind to yourself and that you’re not alone.
Warm regards,
James Revell Doctor of Chiropractic
DC,LRCC,MSc(Chiro),BSc(Chiro),BSc(Biol)
Licentiate Royal College of Chiropractors
Member British Chiropractic Association
Clinic Director
Lushington Chiropractic Ltd
30 Lushington Road,
BN21 4LL
01323 722499
www.lushingtonchiropractic.com
Award-Winning Care to Over 10,000 Local People
Here are Some Useful Mental Health Resources:
To find a therapist close to you check out the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy’s directory here
www.HelpLines.org/helplines is a good general resource.
www.MensAdviceLine.org.uk (because us men are less likely to access support – in fact the leading cause of death for men under 40 is suicide!).
Samaritans.org 116 123 are there 24/7 and not just for crises.
www.YoungMinds.org.uk/resources is good for adults and young people.
Also www.ChildLine.org.uk/info-advice has some great resources 0800 1111 for children AND they can be helpful to parents.
Related
By James Revell
Related Articles
Archives
Call now 01323 722499
You must be logged in to post a comment.