Theme of the Month - Mental Health & Wellbeing
What is Mental Health?
Our mental health affects how we think, feel and act. It relates to our physchological and emotional wellbeing, which determines how we handle stress, make choices and relate to others.
Mental health problems can result in your behaviour, mood and thinking being affected. There are many factors that can contribute to mental health problems including:
History of mental health problems in the family
Biological factors - brain chemistry or genes
Life experiences - abuse or trauma
Early warning signs
If you or someone you know is experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviours, this can be an early warning sign of a problem.
Eating/sleeping too much or too little
Having low or no energy
Pulling away from people or usual activities
Feeling numb
Feeling helpless or hopeless
Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried or scared
Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
Having unexplained aches and pains
Maintaining a positive mental health
It is important that we look after our own mental health. We can all take steps to improve our mental health and our ability to cope - there are some great ways listed below to get you started!
Keep active
Make sure to exercise regularly to boost your self-esteem. Experts say people should do at least 30 minutes exercise five days a week. Exercise is known to help you sleep, concentrate and feel better.
Eat well
What we eat can have a big impact on how we feel. A good diet is not only good for your physical health, but your mental health too!
Keep in contact
Ensure to keep in touch with friends and family. Supportive relationships are key to maintaining positive mental health. Try to maintain good relationships even when at times this may be difficult. Ask for help if you need it.
