Mental health: 5 steps to a happier YOU!

In today's fast-paced and demanding world, taking care of our mental health is crucial. Prioritising self-care and adopting healthy habits can significantly improve our emotional and psychological state. Here are five practical tips to help you maintain good mental health and lead to a happier YOU!

1. Practice Self-care

Slow down. Set aside time each day for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Engage in hobbies, practice mindfulness or meditation, and prioritise adequate sleep. Taking care of your physical health, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, also contributes to a positive mindset.

2. Limit Social Media Use

Take a look at your social media use - is it distracting you, causing you anxiety or even disrupting your sleep? Consider a social media break or at the very least, unfollow anyone who makes you feel bad about yourself, even if unintentionally. Instead, try following some of the following accounts which are guaranteed to put a smile on your face...

Good News Movement - daily feelgood news stories from around the world.

The Happy Newspaper - a real newspaper celebrating only positive news.

Last but not least, Rochdale Style - we share happy, uplifting news about our borough and its wonderful people!

3. Manage Stress

Identify stress triggers and develop effective coping mechanisms. Incorporate stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets to alleviate tension. Prioritise time management, delegate tasks, and learn to say no when necessary.

4. Seek Support

Don't hesitate to seek professional support when needed. A licensed therapist or counsellor can provide guidance and offer coping strategies. There are also some fantastic support groups in the local area. If you'd prefer to share your thoughts with a stranger, confidential services such as the Samaritans are always at the end of the phone or email.

5. Practice Gratitude

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can have a transformative effect on mental health. Take time each day to reflect on things you are grateful for. Keeping a gratitude journal or expressing appreciation towards others helps shift focus to the positive aspects of life.

Remember, mental health is a journey, and everyone's experience is unique. Implementing these tips consistently and adapting them to suit your needs can make a huge difference in maintaining good mental wellbeing. Advice & support

FURTHER ADVICE & SUPPORT

ROCHDALE AND DISTRICT MIND 01706 752338

Mind provide help and support through a variety of services from self help courses and counselling to creative sessions and dementia support. There's also The Social Cafe drop-in which provides a safe, non-judgmental space to relax, talk and meet likeminded people. No need to book, just turn upevery Tuesday 10-12 at Rochdale Wellbeing Centre, 3-11 Drake St, Rochdale, OL16 1RE.

ANDY’S MAN CLUB

www.andysmanclub.co.uk

This is a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental place where men can come and talk about their problems, every Monday (excluding bank holidays) at 7pm.

Venue 1: Mayfield Sports Centre, OL11 3BY. Venue 2: Spotland Stadium, off Willbutts Lane, OL11 3DS ‘our spot community hub’ near the 5-a-side pitch.

SAMARITANS (116 123)

www.samaritans.org

A 24-hour service. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling you can email Samaritans at: jo@samaritans.org.

SHOUT 85258

This is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. To start a conversation, text the word ‘Shout’ to 85258.