MENTAL WELLBEING

*The following information and advice has been referenced from mentalhealth.org.uk
 

Looking after you mental health (often referred to as your ‘emotional health’ or ‘well-being’) is just as important as looking after your physical health.

Good mental health is characterised by a person’s ability to fulfil a number of key functions and activities, including:

• the ability to learn
• the ability to feel, express and manage a range of positive and negative emotions
• the ability to form and maintain good relationships with others
• the ability to cope with and manage change and uncertainty.

Mental Health affects everyone! We all have time when we feel down, stressed, worried or frightened.  

Everyone is different, and our mental health doesn’t always stay the same.  It can change, as we pass through different stages of life, when our circumstances change, or when we are faced with different experiences.  Some people are able to bounce back from a setback, whereas others may feel weighed down for a long time. 

This can develop into a more serious problem.  It can happen to anyone, at any time.

Top 5 Tips to Look After Your Mental Health

1. Talk about your feelings

Many people feel uncomfortable talking about their feelings, but it’s healthy to do so, and is actively encouraged.   Talking about your feelings is part of taking charge of your wellbeing and staying health.  It can feel a bit awkward at first, but give it a go. Often it’s the first step is the hardest, but it gets easier.   It will likely encourage others to open up to.  

2. Keeping Active

Now, we know we’re biased, but don’t just take our word for it!  Leading experts believe that exercise releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem, help you concentrate, sleep and feel better.  There are so many different activities for you to choose from East Lothian.  The most important thing is to find something that you enjoy doing.

3. Eating Well

A healthy, balance diet that is good for your physical health, is also good for your mental health.  Your brain needs a mixture of nutrients to stay health and function well, just like the rest of your body.   Aim for three balanced meals and plenty of water.  Always follow the advice of your doctor or dietician if you have been given specific dietary advice.

4. Drink Sensibly

Often we turn to alcohol when we feel low, to help change our mood.  But the effect is only temporary.  Drinking is not a good way to manage difficult feelings.   The more you have, the more you crave, which doesn’t solve problems, it just creates new ones.  Always try and stay within the recommended weekly alcohol limits.

5. Keeping in Touch

Supportive friends and family can help you deal with the stresses of life.  They provide warmth and comfort, making you feel included and cared for.   They can provide different perspectives, from whatever is going on in your own mind.  They can help motivate, inspire and keep your grounded.  Whether in person, over the phone or online.  Find a way that works best for you.

Caring for Your Mental Health

The below links will take you to a series of external organisation that provide help and support for anyone looking to care and improve their mental health. 

🔗 Mental Health Foundation Scotland

🔗 Young Minds

🔗 Changes Community Health Project

🔗 East Space

🔗 Headspace 

🔗 NHS Advice to Improve Mental Health

🔗 Scottish Association of Mental Health SAMH

🔗 FutureLearn Free Course:  Manage Low Mood during Covid-19