Today marks World Mental Health Day - a day designed for global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma.
So, what better time to focus on looking after your own mental health? Everyone is unique. And so are you. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach!
It’s important to find out what works for you. It’s usually the simple stuff.
Here are some ideas to get you started…
1. Get enough sleep! - It doesn’t always have to be a full 8 hours but prioritising some quality shut eye is so important in helping you feel well rested and energised.
2. Move more - Focusing on a physical activity is great for clearing your mind. It can just be stroll round the block, but exercise helps you to produce endorphins (that make you feel good), helps promote better sleep (see above) and ensures you get some fresh air.
3. Find time for you - Do something you enjoy every day. It could be as simple as having a cup of tea, listening to music, chatting on the phone to a mate or watching the match!
4. Eat good food - This is a big one. Eating regularly and well, helps your mental health, energy levels, sleep, and keeps your body healthy. Think of food as delicious fuel for your body and mind. It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, just make what you can from scratch and go steady on treats and alcohol.
5. Learn a new skill - Learning something new does wonders for your mental health. Give something new a go. You won’t be perfect at first but mastering a new skill, no matter how small, helps to build your confidence and self-esteem. At Men’s Pie Club, we show you how to cook pies from scratch. It’s not about perfection, it’s about #LocalGuysMakingPies together - we’re here for the chat as much the scran. (By the way, we’d love you to become a member, join your local Pie Club here)
6. Talk to someone - We’re social creatures hardwired for connection. When you’re feeling down it can be tempting to avoid others. Make the effort to speak to someone each day. Chatting to friends, neighbours, family, people you bump into at the shops - can make all the difference. You aren’t a burden; everyone needs to talk so you are likely cheering them up too!
7. Drink more water - Research shows that drinking enough water (about 8 glasses a day) can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. Even mild dehydration can lead to a dip in mood and anxiety. It’s amazing stuff and it is FREE. Get guzzling.
8. Find a morning routine - You don’t need to be regimented or restrictive with your routine but even when you’re just chilling out for the day, getting up at a regular time, getting washed and changed, having a good breakfast and a cuppa in your favourite mug can really impact the rest of your day.
9. Offer to help others - Helping others to feel good is a real double whammy! Acts of kindness can give you a feeling of purpose and helps you to connect with others. It could be helping a neighbour with a DIY task or volunteering in your community. Being helpful really does give you a spring in your step!
10. Ask for help - Talking to friends and family is great but if you find you’re having more bad days than good, go and see your GP. Remember there are loads of free online resources and helplines available to help you. We’ve listed some below.
Look after yourselves,
The MPC team
NHS self-help resources (think quizzes and advice on when to get support)
Samaritans - these guys are always there to listen. Give them a call. It is free.
Did you know we are funded by Movember? Check out their guides and how to support other bros.
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