According to Mind, approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK experience a mental health problem each year. It is time that mental wellbeing is taken seriously. With the theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week being ‘kindness’, here at Gordons we have put together some top tips for being kind to yourself.
- It is ok not to be ok
It is only human to have good days and bad days. Showing sadness is not a sign of weakness. You do not have to shut out your feelings. Sometimes acknowledging your feelings can help. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help available.
Please see below the link to the mental health helplines and support groups that can offer expert advice.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/
Many companies are choosing to prioritise the mental health of their employees. Shelley Boyd is a Mental Health First Aider at Gordons who is available to support the team. If you suspect someone you know is struggling, show them your support and ask how you can help.
- Nature
Spending time outdoors can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing. Going for a walk, gardening, or exercising outdoors can really help. While it may feel difficult to initially motivate yourself, the advantages make it worthwhile. Please click here for an explanation of the benefits and for more tips for activities.
Going for a walk after I finish work helps me to switch off at the end of the day. This is especially important when working from home as my office space is the same as my living space. I enjoy seeing the plants and animals grow and change, especially at this time of year.
- Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique where you make a special effort to notice what is happening in the present, without any judgement. For more information about what mindfulness is and the benefits click here.
One of the Partners at Gordons Samantha Chubb is also a qualified yoga teacher and runs weekly Yoga classes via video. This is a great opportunity for us to take time out of busy schedules to think about the present. There are also some great apps such as Headspace which allow you to take time for some headspace.
- Relaxation
What you find relaxing will depend on what you like doing. It does not have to be time consuming. I find having a bath very relaxing and it gives me space away from other people to process my thoughts. For more tips click here. It is important that whatever you are doing to relax you are making time for yourself. It does not have to be long.
- Creativity
Get creative! Being involved in the arts can improve mood and wellbeing generally. Listen to your favourite music, create some art, write a journal, bake a cake. Engaging in any of these activities for yourself, without worrying about what other people think, can be beneficial.
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” – Jennifer Dukes Lee.