As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Week Fergus Hamilton Collard, our Policy Officer, shares some useful tips in maintaining good mental health. 

During lockdown it’s important that we all aim to maintain our mental health at this difficult and uncertain time.

For lots of people keeping a good working routine can be key for maintaining good mental health.

Personally, I’ve found that keeping a structured routine during lockdown in both work and in my own time has worked really well, but its whatever feels most comfortable for you. Also, making sure you take regular breaks at work is really important.

Different things work for different people, but for me I benefit from staying as physically and mentally active as possible.

Exercise:

  • Other than the obvious physical health benefits exercising can also help to release endorphins and serotonin which can improve your mood
  • Now could be a great time to take up running, cycling or tennis
  • For those who are less active the NHS have created a ‘Get Fit with Strength and Flex’ programme, which can be accessed here

Yoga and Meditation:

  • Yoga and meditation can be really useful and can help you to de-stress, focus and channel your energy
  • App’s like Down Dog and Yoga for Beginners are great for those starting out
  • Alternatively, you can find a range of meditation and yoga classes online via YouTube

Keeping your mind occupied:

  • Books
  • Puzzles/Sudoku
  • Board games
  • Hobbes and Interests (this could include learning a musical instrument or language)

Three books I’ve enjoyed over the past few weeks in lockdown, and which I highly recommend are:

  • The Penguin Lessons-Tom Mitchell
  • Why We Sleep-Matthew Walker
  • Becoming-Michelle Obama

Keeping in regular contact with people:

  • Calls
  • Video chats
  • Virtual games
  • Virtual quizzes

Eating and Sleeping

  • Making sure you’re getting a good amount of sleep every night can be really helpful in maintain good mental health
  • Eating and drinking healthily can be really beneficial for both your physical and mental health

If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, it’s really important you speak to someone. Now, more than every it is crucial that we all support each other.

 

Here are some useful links: