Its #timetotalk about Mental Health

With mental health day this month we’re looking at ways to help your mental health. Whilst more and more people are talking about mental health issues now, there is still a stigma attached to admitting you are suffering, particularly amongst men. Mentalhealth.org.uk states that men counted for three quarters of the suicide figures for 2018*. Whilst women may be more often diagnosed with anxiety disorders this could possibly be because women are more likely to talk about it and seek help. 

If you are struggling here are some ways you can help yourself and your mind. 

Talk about your feelings

By talking about your feelings, you can receive support and feel less alone. It there is no-one you know to talk to, there are help lines you can contact. If you do choose to talk to someone you know you may be suprised about how they respond, and you may find that they open up about their own mental health as well. 

In recent neuroscientific research mediation has been shown to re-wire brain circuits to boost mind and body. Whilst there are many different types of meditation, the most simple way is to just sit still, in a comfortable position. Close your eyes, take 3 deep breaths then let your breathing relax and just watch your tummy rise and fall. Every time your brain gets distracted by thoughts, just gently bring it back to the breath.

Exercising or keeping active can keep your mental health on track. Not only does it help you sleep better, it produces serotonin in the brain, which boosts your mood and sense of well-being. This can include walking in a park, gardening, rock climbing, or any activity that gets you moving.

Evidence is mounting that gut bacteria can affect mental health and depression, but without analysing every bacteria in your digestive system maintaining a good diet will help your mental health as well as your physical health. A healthy diet includes lots of fruit and veg, nuts, seeds, fish, lean meats, dairy and lots of water. Limit sugary foods and alcohol as they can be destabilising for your nervous responses. They may give you a lift at the time but will then leave you low afterwards.

Physical health problems can negatively affect your mental health. If you are living with pain, your sleep can be disturbed, your daily activities restricted, your concentration levels reduced and overall your mood can be affected. Taking steps to reduce your pain, and help your physical body be the best body it can be, will have positive feedback to your mental health. Osteopathy and acupuncture are just two of the therapies that can help treat your pain.

These are just a few mental health help resources

 www.anxietyuk.org.uk

 www.thecalmzone.net

 www.mind.org.uk

www.samaritans.org

#osteopathyworks #mentalhealth #timetotalk #selfcare

*Reference https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics-suicide