According to current statistics over half of us will suffer from a mental health problem at some point in our lifetime. If we were told that over half of us would be crippled with arthritis or suffer from cancer, we would probably be asking what we could do now to protect ourselves against it happening to us. Unfortunately, mental health problems aren’t so openly discussed and the reaction to the statistic is more of “I can’t see that happening to me”.
Given that mental ill health is one of the main causes of time off work, good mental health isn’t just a problem for the individual. If individuals and employers were both committed to bringing this statistic down the benefits could be seen countrywide both personally and economically. Here are some useful tips for both individuals and for employers to offer to their staff, think of them as PRESENTS!
Mental Health Tips
- Positive – research has proven that negative thinking is energy draining and can increase susceptibility to certain illnesses. Trying to be more optimistic doesn’t mean ignoring anything unpleasant, it means focusing on the positive elements of any given situation and it gets easier with practice.
- Rest – everyone varies, but ensure that you get enough sleep for you as sleep deprivation can increase a number of health risks. Setting a regular bedtime, relaxing in a hot bath and not taking paperwork or laptops to bed can all contribute to a better night’s sleep.
- Emotions – recognizing your emotions and expressing them will help ensure you don’t get stuck in a negative state. Positive emotions boost your ability to bounce back from the invariable adversities life throws up.
- Support – humans are social animals, we need to feel supported, valued and connected. By developing a strong support network, you will have trusted people to encourage you and help support you through tough times. Remember, of course, that this is a two-way process and helping others can improve your own well-being.
- Exercise – the link between mind and body is well documented. Exercise can increase strength and relieve tense muscles. However, it also helps us to release endorphins which can energize us as well as improve our mood and sleep quality.
- Nutrition – what you eat affects both your energy and your mood. Healthy, regular meals can increase your energy, lower your risk of developing certain diseases and influence your mood.
- Time – take a little time to think about the positives in your life. This may inspire you to do something for someone else. Research suggests that those who do positive things for others experience less depression, greater calm and fewer aches and pains.
- Sunlight – not always easy in this country but exposing yourself to 10-15 minutes daylight each day can help to lift your mood, try a quick lunchtime stroll or walk to the shop instead of taking the car.
Mental Health Awareness Training
We have developed a one day course entitled Mental Health Awareness Training which describes and helps managers to recognise the signs and symptoms of the most common mental health disorders.
Personal Resilience Training
Many have benefited from our Developing Personal Resilience course which assists delegates to respond positively to the pressures and demands of modern working life and helps them identify opportunities to thrive.
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