ANTHONY COOLE

FELLAS, MIND YOUR HEAD.

(A MOMENT OF REFLECTION.)

SO I’VE BEEN DOING a lot of thinking lately and reflecting over the past couple of months on the things that have been going on in my life. I normally use this platform to talk about all things fitness, specifically around how to keep your body in peak physical shape but today I wanted to take the opportunity to focus on how to keep your mind in peak condition also.

The reason for this is last month I got the devastating news that a good friend of mine suddenly took his own life. As a previous client of mine, I had known for some time he had been struggling with his mental health and in the end it all became too much for him. So guys I just wanted to talk a little bit about this today especially as the suicide rate amongst young men in Northern Ireland is increasing each year and is now double the rate than that of England. As men we often find it hard to talk about

how we are feeling on the inside in fear that we will be perceived as weak and a burden to others. I get that, as men society says that we are supposed to be tough, headstrong and have our sh*t together and never show our vulnerabilities right? But hey, we aren’t pre-programmed robots void of emotion. We are human and we need to feel sometimes. The stresses of modern day life is tough going and no one is immune to feeling the pressure at times.

So, I just want to highlight some of the signs to look out for if someone around you might be struggling.

If you notice any of the following behaviours it might be a good time to ask them how they are doing because as we all know talking about it is the best first step in

recovery.

• They have become withdrawn and isolating away from friends more than usual. • They are feeling angry, hopelessness and have lost connection with loved

ones. • Increased use of alcohol/drugs in order to feel better about themselves or their situation. • Extreme acts of aggression or mood swings. • Talking about being a burden to others. • Giving up on their most loved passions in life/activities.

If you have noticed a friend displaying any of these symptoms/behaviours then it would be a good time to ask that question, “Are you ok.” Now a lot of men are super proud and may find it hard initially to open up and If this is the case, just let them know that you are there for them if they ever need to talk about anything. Or you may find that its yourself in this position. If you find lately you are struggling then make that first step to confide in someone you can trust, it really is the best thing you can do on your road to recovery.

There are also things you can try to help elevate your sense of well-being and self-esteem so you can start feeling better upstairs. Here’s a couple that I think will really make a huge difference for you.

• Exercise. Never underestimate the power of physical exercise and its benefits for ones mental health.

Exercise increases feel good hormones in the body and will help you feel that sense of accomplishment each day.

Many doctors now prescribe exercise as a means to overcoming depression as opposed to medication. Now it doesn’t mean you need to join an expensive gym or club, just get outside for 30 mins a day and get some fresh air. I promise you it will make a big difference as each day passes. • Take a break from social media. This one for me is a biggy and probably the most important of all. We are now all on at least one social media app and each we are bombarded with images of those living their “best lives". Let me give you all a nice wee truth bomb right now, the “ Perfect Life ” does not exist. As humans, we like to give the impression that our lives are 100% amazing all the time but what you see really isn’t a true reflection of reality. We all have sh*t to deal with each day, but no-one likes to show the negative aspects right? So please stop comparing yourself to the social media influencers, life isn’t a competition. The sooner you can do this the better.

And if you would like to talk to someone in confidence about how you are feeling you can always call the Samaritans for free on 116 123.

Also, I just wanted to let you all know that I am currently running an offer for the month of November for anyone with Spend Local NI high street vouchers. I am offering 8 personal training sessions for £100 making each session half price at just £12.50 each. (Normal price £25 per hour) This offer is for new clients only and is subject to T+C’s. Get in touch with me for more info via email: anthony_cooley@icloud.com

All the best fellas, and as always mind your heads. Anthony.