Phew, can we go back to ‘normal’ yet? After two years of enormous upheaval, stress and strain, many experts are warning that the UK is facing a mental health crisis. This crisis is predicted to most adversely affect the young – the so-called ‘COVID generation’, and it’s easy to see why; never before has the future looked quite so bleak. Indeed, things feel like they are getting worse, don’t they? War, natural disasters, corruption in politics… The list goes on.
Of course, the most effective way to address any feelings of low mood or despair is by first contacting a registered, qualified health professional. And should a case be urgent, the NHS has a dedicated mental health helpline for urgent cases, which offers 24 hour support. You can find a local NHS urgent mental health helpline here; simply enter your age and postcode and you’ll be given a number to call. Be aware that this number is for England only.
If you’re taking a proactive, preventative approach to your wellbeing during this difficult time, then there are things you can do to tackle these issues head on and with as much knowledge, confidence and support as possible. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL steps to a more positive outlook today.
Keep Informed, Educated & Alert
It’s a glaring, troubling omission from every school syllabus, that young people are primarily educated in regard to their physical health. We’re taught about having a ‘healthy’ diet, we’re guided on how to throw an ‘effin javelin. But, anxiety, depression and the requisite coping strategies, symptom management and holistic prevention methods are things barely given a mention. It’s almost as if society wants us to be stressed, compliant and satisfied with less, right?
Though it shouldn’t be this way, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. Ensure that you’re alert and listening to your mind for warning signs of any approaching wellbeing issues. Get reading about different schools of psychological thought on the subject and the most effective, NHS approved strategies for tackling low mood head on.
Absolutely No Stigma In Seeking Help
As the guys at Psymplicity, who offer a welcoming space for people to get the help they need, tell us, ”A mental health condition is often an invisible illness, causing you pain and suffering every day that a bypasser on the street just can’t see.”
Even those who are outwardly successful and content may be suffering or receiving support for any number of issues, and there’s no stigma in doing the same. This support could take the form of family member, friend or trusted confidant. Equally, if a little distance might suit you better, then there’s absolutely no shame in seeking professional help. Start by talking to your GP, who will then offer advice and a possible referral to a therapist.
Read: Free mental health support services
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
It’s no secret anymore. So mainstream a notion now, that it shouldn’t even be deemed a ‘miracle cure’. Yep, we’re talking about exercise’s hugely positive rule in mental wellbeing. Countless studies have concluded that daily exercise of some description (running in particular) does wonders for our outlook and state of mind. Try to include a little in your day, no matter how busy you may be.
This healthy body, healthy mind mantra also extends to diet. Although sometimes the link isn’t immediately obvious, ”a poor diet can actually aggravate, and may even lead to, stress and depression”, according to Sutter Health.
Conversely, a decent, attentive diet can do wonders for the mind. Foods which are thought to reduce stress and anxiety include avocados and bananas (high in potassium, known to lower blood pressure), bitter, leafy veg like Swiss chard (whose magnesium balances cortisol, the body’s stress hormone), and omega 3 rich fish like mackerel and salmon, which are great for heart health.
Mindful Meditation
Six years ago the NHS recognised mindful meditation as an alleviator of depression and anxiety. Since then, ‘taking a moment’ has gone mainstream, with more and more people discovering the great benefits it can bring to their overall sense of wellbeing.
So, one of the best things you can bring to your daily mental health regime is to include a meditation or two. ”But we don’t have the time, energy or money”, we hear you say. Well, even a ten minute session can bring benefits, and meditating requires nothing more than a quiet, peaceful space and your own mind. There are apps to guide you, many of which offer free guided meditations.
Read: The best meditation apps for 2022
It should be noted that mindfulness training alone isn’t a catch-all solution to low mood, and should only be used as one item in a larger toolkit of preventative measures.
Keep A Gratitude Diary
It’s been well documented that gratitude is a key contributor to happiness. By keeping a diary of daily appreciation, you may find yourself more grounded, humble, thankful and kind towards the world around you.
It’s wise to approach this act with empathy, rather than simply going through the motions; if you’ve had a non eventful day, don’t feel compelled to complete your journal. Instead, focus on depth, not breadth, and on people you appreciate, rather than things. In doing so, you’ll notice a gradual, growing warmth towards to world.
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified mental health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*