There is no one size fits all approach to good mental health and wellbeing (wouldn’t it be great if there was?!). But, there are some good ideas we can all consider that might help to improve our lives and our emotional wellbeing.
The NHS has a model called the five steps to mental wellbeing which we’d highly recommend taking a look at if you are struggling with your mental health, or know someone who is.
For young people in particular, we find that the focusing on the following areas can make a huge difference.
Being connected to your community
Feeling a sense of connection with other people in our lives is really important, but being part of something wider than their selves and immediate family can provide so much to our lives. We are big advocates for youth groups, but know that not all areas have them. You could look up opportunities to join clubs at school around your favourite hobbies and sports, volunteer in your local area for a cause you care about, or join a community group.
Trying something new
This could be learning a new skill, attending a new session or even just listening to a new type of music. If there’s nothing local to you to join in person, take a look at online groups around your hobbies and interests – just be mindful about spending a lot of time on-screen has this can impact on your wellbeing. It’s all about finding a good balance for you.
Get moving
We always hear about the connection between physical wellbeing and mental health. But it doesn’t have to joining the gym or signing up for a marathon, it can just be about planning to go for a 20-minute walk each day, or finding a new sport or way of exercising that works for you and that you enjoy.
Think about screen time
Online spaces can often be really important and create much-needed connections, but spending too much time staring at screens is also not great for our mental health and wellbeing. Schools, college and jobs often require lots of computer use, so make sure that you can put in screen-free breaks throughout your day and before you go to bed.
Practice being and feeling ‘present’
Sometimes this is referred to as mindfulness, but it can also just be about making sure you’re truly ‘in the room’ when you are with someone else and putting down the screen or putting to the side something that is worrying you for a few moments.
Expressing your worries
If you are anxious about something, find a positive way to help you process it. This might mean writing it down, talking to someone about it or planning specific actions you can take to deal with the issue. Worry management can be tough, and if you are finding it too much look for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Make time for fun
Put aside time each week for yourself and your favourite pasttimes. This might as simple as finding some reading time before bed, or going for a walk. It could also be spending time with loved ones and friends.