Being a parent is challenging, but being a parent who is homebound can be incredibly isolating and stressful. With the added pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, homebound parents have been struggling with their mental health more than ever before. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. There are several mental health support strategies that parents can implement to help them cope with this challenging time and help them continue to provide their children with the love and care that they deserve.
Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise can help homebound parents manage their stress and maintain their mental health. They can schedule regular exercise routines at home, and practice deep breathing and meditation during their downtime. It is essential for homebound parents to set boundaries and take care of their well-being to increase their capacity to address the demands of parenthood.
Seek Professional Help
Homebound parents who are struggling with their mental health should consider seeking the support and guidance of a mental health professional. They can benefit from online therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, or taking medication that might help them feel better. There are also many mental health hotlines and online resources available to parents struggling with their mental health.
Connect with a Support Network
Homebound parents can engage with online support groups where they can share their experiences, offer and receive advice, and connect with other people going through the same thing. It is also a good idea to connect with friends and family members for emotional support. Social connection is vital to maintaining good mental health.
Utilize Home Health Care Services
Home health care services can provide support and assistance for parents who are struggling with their health. These services can include anything from medication management to helping with household chores and providing much needed respite care for parents. Home health care services can also help parents navigate local resources to receive additional support.
Practice Stress-Reducing Activities with Children
Homebound parents can engage their children in various stress-reducing activities such as sensory play, guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. These activities can help children learn how to manage their emotions and provide a calming environment for both parents and children.
Being a homebound parent is challenging, but it becomes even more challenging when mental health struggles are involved. Still, it is essential to prioritise self-care and seek professional help when needed. Engage with a support network, consider utilising home health care services, and perform stress-reducing activities with children.
These strategies will significantly empower homebound parents and help them cope with the challenges of parenthood effectively. With the proper support, homebound parents can provide the love and care their children need and deserve.
This article was written by writer Lizzie Weakley.
In today’s fast-paced, stress-laden world, it can be a real challenge to keep yourself mentally and physically balanced. It’s easy to overlook the impact of your lifestyle choices on your overall well-being and end up feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and burnt out. However, maintaining a healthy mind and body is crucial for long-term happiness and success. This post intends to explore tips and tricks for prioritising your mental and physical health and keeping them in balance. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just seeking a more balanced lifestyle, there are answers to follow.Â
Eat HealthilyÂ
The food you eat keeps your body in shape and can significantly impact your mental health. Research shows that eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Try incorporating more whole foods, fruits, greens, and lean proteins into your diet, and steer clear of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. If you want to take it a step further, try meal prepping always to have healthy food when you’re in a rush.Â
Exercise RegularlyÂ
Exercise is one of the best ways to balance your body and mind. Whether going to the gym, taking a yoga class, or going for a run or walk, exercise releases endorphins that lift your mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Make sure to find something you enjoy that you can stick to long-term. Even if it is just 30 minutes of physical activity daily, you’ll notice a huge difference in your overall well-being.Â
Rest and RelaxÂ
With life’s stressors always looming, finding time to rest and relax can be challenging. However, taking care of yourself by getting enough rest is crucial to balancing your mental health. Ensure you are getting enough sleep, aiming for around seven to nine hours per night, and take other measures to relax, such as massage, a bubble bath, or indulging in your favourite hobbies.Â
Prioritise Your Mental HealthÂ
Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health problem, it’s essential to prioritise your mental health. Seek professional mental health care if necessary, talk to trusted friends and family about any concerns, and make sure you take time each day to do things you love. Self-care and meditation can also work wonders to quiet your mind, reduce stress, and ease feelings of anxiety.Â
Find Balance in Your RelationshipsÂ
Achieving balance in your relationships is also crucial for mental health. Sometimes, unhealthy relationships can lead to unhealthy habits that throw you off balance and make you feel worse. Make sure you only surround yourself with people who support you, respect you, and have your best interests at heart. Ensure you set boundaries, say no when necessary, and openly communicate your needs and feelings.
Keeping yourself in balance mentally and physically is an ongoing process that requires continual effort and investment. However, the rewards of prioritising your mental and physical health can be nothing short of life-changing. By taking care of yourself and making sure you are eating healthily, exercising regularly, getting enough rest, prioritising your mental health, and finding balance in your relationships, you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. So, try some of these tips, and watch yourself grow into the best version of yourself yet.Â
Meghan Belnap is a freelance blogger, researcher and writer.
Being a mother, let alone a new mother, is no easy task. New moms might find themselves flustered with the idea of being a parent for the first time ever. No longer do they only have to care for themselves but also a little one, too, who depends on them. Frustration, stress, and lack of sleep are all common for new mothers. So, how can they fix this? Here are some tips.
Sleep in the Same Room as Baby
Waking up every few hours in the night is no easy task. Having your sleep disrupted when in a groggy state is several times easier when your baby is close by to you.
Keep a crib or bassinet right next to your bed or at least a few feet away to reduce long walks throughout the house to tend to your baby in the night. This way, you can resume sleep as soon as possible.
Prepare a Feeding & Changing Station Before Bed
Another way to ensure proper rest and sanity as a new mom is to keep a feeding and changing station stocked before going to bed for the night. Keep diapers, wipes, rash cream, baby powder, and a change of clothes nearby. Also keep clean bottles and formula (if applicable) within close reach.
Don’t Skip the Bubble Baths
Good hygiene provides relaxation, which in turn, helps us feel more put together and well-rested. There’s nothing quite like soaking in a calming bubble bath to ease those tense muscles.
Keep Your Mental Health in Check
After having a baby, your mental health is of utmost importance. When you’re in a bad mental health state, it’s difficult to get quality sleep at night. You may have problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or may be oversleeping. Either way, you find yourself feeling unrested.
Right now, your wellbeing and your baby’s well being matter most. A pile of dirty dishes? Leave it for tomorrow. Now is the time to prioritize your physical and mental state in the form of good rest. Unless there’s broken glass on the ground or a horrible stench in the house, the chores can be put off.
Get Physical
Even simply going on a walk around the block can be a great way to get exercise in. This in itself can be a relaxing activity. And as everyone knows, getting exercise can also allow you to get a better night’s rest.
Drinking Calming Teas
Turning to herbal teas like chamomile or lavender can be great ways to unwind after a hectic day as a new mom. Never underestimate the power of a hot beverage filled with calming herbs, especially before bedtime.
Conclusion
Being a new mother is going to be a challenge no matter how you look at it. However, what a mom can do differently to make things easier is to ensure she gets proper rest. With the latter tips, any overwhelmed, exhausted mom can get the rest and relaxation she needs to feel rejuvenated after a long day of parenting.
On Monday 11th September, I am looking forward to being on a webinar on Bipolar and Suicide prevention for Bipolar UK charity, with their CEO Simon Kitchen and a police officer, Ashley Brice (pictured), who specialises in suicide prevention for people in crisis in Wales. This is a difficult topic to discuss and one that will be tackled with empathy.
She sits nervously clutching her GHD straightened hair. Its meant to look poker straight but her curly waves never seem to look like Avril Lavigne’s hair. Except for that time when her friend tried to tame it for her with straighteners and an iron!
She lives in a bedroom in the family home- half child, half adult, the wallpaper pink with pictures of little bo peep covered with music posters- Destiny’s Child (Beyonce, Kelly and Michelle in their Survivor jungle outfits peer down) and Joss Stone with her nose piercing. She looks up to these women and wishes she could be them, especially Joss, who is only a year or so older than she is. Mariah Carey is another huge influence and she listens to her Daydream and Greatest hits albums on repeat on her CD player, trying to sing like Mariah but failing to hit those notes.
At school, she loves Drama- she loves to perform as different characters and study theatre. She has a wonderful group of friends who she will remain friends with today. She dreams of going to drama school.. and she will achieve her goal!
She is me, aged 16 years old in 2004.
She is ‘baby Ellie’- the teenager who had no idea what was in store for her life or to come. Who should have been free to party, make mistakes, not worry about life. Who should have been discovering life safely but enjoying teen life.
She was given the diagnosis of a severe mental illness, bipolar disorder, when she was still a child.
She struggled with depression, mania and psychosis from the age of 15.
She has been medicated for 19 years (and had changes of medication).
She has been in therapy for longer.
but she survived and thrived.
And she still loves theatre and music and friends (although the GHD’s have been relegated to the back of the cupboard!)
So dear Baby Ellie,
Whatever happens – everything is going to be OK and you will achieve things beyond your imagination- except being able to sing like Mariah Carey.
When I look back at her, I hear the lyrics of the song ‘Looking in’ on Mariah’s day dream album that I used to play….
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a severe eating disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period. This disorder is associated with acute physical and psychological complications that can affect an individual’s quality of life. Recovering from binge eating disorder can be a challenging process, but with the right guidance and support, it can be achieved. This blog post will discuss five tips for successfully recovering from binge eating disorder.
Seek Professional Help
Recovering from binge eating disorder requires professional guidance and support. The first step towards recovery is to seek professional help. Consulting with a healthcare provider (such as the NHS or privately) or a registered dietician can help an individual develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses their unique needs. The medical professionals (psychiatrist, GP) can also screen individuals for underlying health problems that may contribute to binge eating disorder, such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders.
Establish a Support System
Establishing a support system is essential for individuals recovering from binge eating disorder. This support system may consist of family, friends, or support groups. Support groups can help individuals connect with other people experiencing similar conditions and receive emotional support and encouragement. It can also provide information about recovery resources and strategies that have worked for others.
Identify Food Triggers
Identifying food triggers that lead to binge eating can help an individual manage such situations. Food triggers may include certain foods, emotions, or social situations. Identifying these triggers can help an individual prepare and develop strategies to cope with them when they arise. Strategies may include therapeutic skills including distraction techniques, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques.
Embrace Online Binge Eating Recovery Services
Online binge eating recovery resources like Lightwork Nutrition can provide valuable support and information for individuals experiencing BED. Online support groups, forums, and recovery programs offer anonymous access to peer support, real-time chat, and educational resources. Using these online resources can help individuals connect with others facing similar challenges from anywhere at any time.
Cultivate Self-Care Habits
Cultivating self-care habits may improve an individual’s physical and mental well-being, ultimately aiding in their recovery. Self-care habits may include healthy eating habits, gentle exercise, and stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or meditation. These habits enable people to manage stress, boost self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall health and well-being.
BED can have significant impacts on an individual’s quality of life. Recovering from binge eating disorder can be a challenging, yet achievable process for individuals. Seeking professional help, establishing a support system, identifying food triggers, embracing online binge eating recovery services, and cultivating self-care habits can enable individuals to overcome binge eating disorder effectively.
Remember, recovery is a process, and with hard work, patience, and dedication, individuals can experience good mental health and well-being.
This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.
When it comes to mental health, many people tend to focus on the usual suspects: stress, anxiety, depression, and medications. However, did you know that your food choices also play a significant role in your mental well-being? Over the years, studies have revealed the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel emotionally. It’s not just about getting the right nutrients for physical health, but also for mental health. This blog post will explore some of the clear examples of how eating affects your mental health.
Mood Swings
What we eat affects the chemistry of our brain, which can lead to mood swings. Consuming foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates, such as cakes and candy bars, may give you a quick energy boost, but it can also cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, leading to irritability, anxiety, and depression. Eating a balanced diet with protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats will help stabilise your mood and keep your energy levels consistent; buying from health food stores with less processed foods and organic produce like Southtown Health Foods can help with this goal.
Stress and Anxiety
Eating nutrient-dense foods can play a big role in reducing stress and anxiety. Foods like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to lower levels of stress hormones. Other foods, such as leafy greens, are rich in magnesium, which can help decrease anxiety. On the other hand, consuming caffeine and sugar can increase feelings of anxiety.
Brain Fog
The foods we eat can also impact our cognitive function. Processed foods and fast food meals that are high in trans fats and sugar can cause inflammation, which affects the brain’s ability to think clearly and process information. It’s important to fuel your brain with nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats like avocado and nuts.
Depression and Mental Health Disorders
Studies have shown that people who consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein have a lower risk of depression and other mental health disorders. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that are crucial for proper brain function and emotional well-being. On the other hand, a diet high in processed and fast food can increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues.
Gut Health
The gut-brain connection is a well-known phenomenon, and the gut microbiome plays a vital role in our mental health. Consuming a diet high in fibre, fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi, and prebiotics like garlic and onions can help foster a healthy gut microbiome and improve mental health. On the other hand, consuming a diet high in sugar and processed foods can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria and inflammation that can negatively impact mental health.
In conclusion, what you put into your body matters for both your physical and mental health. Meal planning and making mindful food choices can go a long way in nourishing your brain and keeping your mood stabilised.
It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all diet that will work for everyone, but incorporating more whole foods into your diet is a good start. Take control of your mental health by paying attention to your diet and making changes as necessary. Your body and mind will thank you for it!
Please note that a healthy diet without any other support is not a ‘cure’- make sure to reach out to professionals if you are in crisis.
Approximately 300 million people worldwide practice yoga every day, and the numbers are only increasing. This is because awareness of the benefits of yoga is growing. The most popular topic on Instagram in the UK during the lockdown was yoga, followed by health (as the second topic of interest). Yoga is gaining traction as a holistic approach to total body wellness and fitness.Â
About Yoga
Yoga has its origins in India, with its first mention being in an ancient sacred text Rig Veda. The world embraced this graceful fitness approach with open arms. Of course, it underwent some adaptations as this practice crossed countries. However, its essence remains the same, regardless of where and how it is practiced. Yoga focuses on breathing, balance, and flexibility. It comprises mental, physical, and spiritual practices. The most important components of yoga are the postures and the breathing work. There are approximately 19 different types of yoga and around 66 basic postures.
Yoga for Total Body Wellness
Many scientific studies support the claims about the benefits of yoga, so you can rest assured that it is not just hype. Some of the ways in which yoga can help in conditioning the mind and body are highlighted below:
Physical Benefits of Yoga
Yoga improves blood flow, which leads to increased oxygen supply to the brain and organs. This promotes cell growth and muscle recovery. If you are recovering from any disease or injury, yoga can accelerate the process for you. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise, so you don’t have to worry about it aggravating any existing issues. Just select the poses that are most suitable for your fitness level and health condition.
There may be no other approaches as well-rounded and effective as yoga for bodybuilding. Yoga can supplement all other bodybuilding efforts as it substantially improves mobility, increases muscle strength, and enhances balance. Low-intensity or restorative yoga is great as an active recovery workout; it reduces muscle soreness and speeds up recovery.
Yoga is also effective as an adjunct treatment for chronic conditions like lower back pain, arthritis, and diabetes. Yoga also helps lower cholesterol and and blood pressure, and can therefore work wonders for your heart. Regular yoga practice can improve immune function and help combat diseases.Â
Beneficial Effects of Yoga on Psychology
Typically, there are no mirrors in yoga studios. This is to prevent people from getting distracted by the way their body looks during a pose. Yoga encourages a person to look inwards and connect with oneself better. Surveys have found that people who practice yoga have a better body image and are less likely to be overly critical of themselves. Yoga also encourages one to be mindful of their eating habits. Mindful eating and a positive body image can help people with eating disorders. Health professionals are now supportive of yoga as a tool for long-term recovery from eating disorders. Yoga therapy also serves as a treatment for depression. Regular yoga can increase mental clarity, improve focus, relieve stress, relax the mind, and boost general mental health.Â
It is only possible to recover and achieve total body wellness when physical fitness is supported and supplemented by mental health. Yoga has beneficial effects on the mind as well as the body and is therefore highly suitable as a holistic approach to total body wellness. Pre-workout supplements could help boost the effects of yoga, such as an increase in blood flow and a rise in endurance levels.Â
Time to Get the Yoga Mat
Yoga is better understood when experienced. Don’t take anyone’s word for it; rather, try it yourself. After your first yoga session, there is a high possibility that you will return for more. You will find yourself making healthier lifestyle choices. With yoga, you can engineer your inner self and your body, to bring out your best version.Â
Author Bio:
Sean Lynam
Sean is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer by profession, and a freelance writer by passion. Sean writes and shares his knowledge for a range of fitness publications and nutrition brands.
Recovery is often daunting for many who have struggled with an eating disorder. There can be so much uncertainty about how to find the right path forward, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated before you even begin. However, treatments and resources are available that can help make things more manageable — both physically and emotionally. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key aspects of recovery through eating disorder treatment therapy, such as various therapy options, self-care strategies, diet modifications, medical support, and more. Whatever stage you’re at in your journey toward healing from an eating disorder — whether just starting or progressing down a patchwork of paths leading toward hope — these concepts might provide useful insight into the road ahead and steady guidance.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex and multifaceted conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Understanding them can be difficult, but it’s essential for promoting recovery and preventing relapse. Eating disorders are often characterized by an unhealthy preoccupation with food, weight, and body shape and can lead to a broad range of physical and mental health issues. However, people with eating disorders can recover with the right treatment and support. Educating ourselves and those around us can help combat the stigma surrounding these conditions and encourage greater understanding and compassion.
a. Definition of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are a complex group of mental illnesses characterised by eating habits that often cause serious physical and emotional damage. The most common types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa involves restricting food intake and often leads to extreme weight loss, while bulimia nervosa involves eating large amounts of food followed by purging through vomiting or excessive exercise. Binge-eating disorder involves eating large quantities of food in a short amount of time, often leading to feelings of guilt and shame. While eating disorders can be life-threatening, there is hope for recovery through specialised treatment and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it’s important to seek professional help to begin healing.
b. Examples of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex and serious mental illnesses affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Some examples of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. A limited range of foods and avoiding or restricting certain food groups characterizes avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It’s important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, as they can have serious physical and psychological consequences. However, with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.
The Impact of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are more than just a physical condition. They take a toll on a person’s mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s anorexia nervosa, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, these conditions can leave long-lasting effects on those who suffer from them and their loved ones. But it’s important to remember that recovery is possible. With the right support and treatment, individuals with eating disorders can regain control of their lives and improve their well-being. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support those who may be struggling with these disorders.
a. Physical Health Complications
Taking care of our physical health is crucial to living a happy and fulfilling life. Physical health complications can arise from various factors, such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. It’s important to be proactive in maintaining good health. By being attentive to our bodies and taking preventive measures, we can reduce the likelihood of physical health complications and improve our overall well-being. Don’t take your physical health for granted – prioritise it in your daily routine.
b. Emotional and Mental Health Effects
Taking care of our emotional and mental health is as important as physical health. After all, a healthy mind is essential for a happy and fulfilling life. When we experience emotional and mental health effects, it can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. For example, stress, anxiety, and depression can prevent us from enjoying the things we love or even getting out of bed in the morning. That’s why it’s crucial to recognise when we’re experiencing emotional and mental health effects and seek support if needed. With the right tools and resources, we can manage our emotions and prioritise our mental health to live our best lives.
Treatment for Eating Disorder Recovery
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it’s important to seek professional help for recovery. Treatment for eating disorder recovery typically involves a combination of therapy, nutritional counselling, and sometimes medication. The goal of treatment is to address the disorder’s physical, emotional, and psychological aspects. Therapy sessions may focus on identifying triggers, developing coping mechanisms, and exploring underlying issues contributing to the disorder. Nutritional counselling can help individuals establish a healthy and balanced relationship with food. Medication may be prescribed to address co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety. Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking help is often the first step toward a happier and healthier future.Â
a. Types of Treatment Available
When seeking treatment for any ailment, knowing what options are available to you is important. Treatment can come in various forms, such as medication, therapy, surgery, or a combination. Medication is often used to manage symptoms of illnesses, while therapy allows individuals to work through their mental or emotional struggles with the guidance of a trained professional. Surgery may be necessary to correct physical ailments or injuries. Whichever treatment type you may require, it is essential to seek the advice of a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. So, don’t hesitate to explore and ask questions about your options and make informed decisions about your own wellbeing.
b. Finding the Right Treatments for You
When finding the right treatments for your health concerns, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey to wellness is unique. Whether you’re dealing with physical or mental health concerns, it’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the right course of treatment for you. This may involve trying different medications or therapies until you find what works best. Taking a proactive role in your health is also important, educating yourself on potential treatments and advocating for your needs. Remember, finding the right treatments may take some time and patience, but you can achieve optimal health and wellness with the right tools and support. If you are in crisis, you may require further support in hospital and from specialist care.
Building a Support System
Building a support system is essential for anyone who wants to thrive. It’s important to have people who support you, understand you, and encourage you to pursue your dreams. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, having a support system can make all the difference in challenging times. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help when you’re feeling overwhelmed or need advice. Building a support system is an ongoing process, so don’t hesitate to reach out to new people and strengthen your connections over time.Â
a. Reaching Out to Loved Ones
When life gets chaotic, it’s important to remember to reach out to your loved ones for support. Whether facing a personal challenge or needing some company, the warmth and understanding of family and friends can make all the difference. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life and forget to make time for those who matter most, but a simple phone call or visit can go a long way in strengthening your relationships. So if you’ve been feeling a little disconnected lately, take a moment to reach out to your loved ones today. You’ll be glad you did.
b. Finding Professional Support
When finding professional support, knowing you’re not alone is important. Seeking help from experts in a particular field can be the key to unlocking a wealth of knowledge and resources that can prove helpful in resolving any issue you may be facing. Whether you’re looking for financial advice, career guidance, or mental health support, professionals are ready and willing to lend a helping hand. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for assistance. This step can be the first step towards overcoming any obstacles. Remember, there is no shame in seeking help and doing so can be a sign of strength and determination.
Overcoming Challenges in Recovery
Entering recovery can be a daunting experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s a journey full of challenges and rewards. Overcoming these challenges is no small feat, but it’s possible with the right mindset and support. Each person’s recovery journey has unique obstacles, but some general strategies can help.
Overcoming these challenges is no small feat, but it’s possible with the right mindset and support. Each person’s recovery journey has unique obstacles. Practicing self-care, building a supportive network, and seeking professional help are all powerful tools in overcoming challenges in recovery. Remember, progress is not always linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the process. But with perseverance and a positive attitude, anyone can overcome the challenges of recovery and emerge stronger and healthier on the other side.Â
a. Coping Mechanisms for Stressful Situations
Stressful situations can be overwhelming, but we all have coping mechanisms that help us make it through. These strategies include taking deep breaths, walking, or talking to someone we trust. It’s important to remember that what works for one person might not work for another, so it’s helpful to experiment and find the best techniques for you. And, of course, practicing self-care and making time for activities that bring us joy can also help reduce overall stress levels. With a little effort and a willingness to try new things, we can develop effective coping mechanisms and find ways to better manage stress when it arises.Â
b. Working Through Setbacks
Life is full of ups and downs, and setbacks are an inevitable part of the journey. It can often feel like the setbacks are bigger than the progress, but it’s important to keep pushing forward. Instead of getting discouraged, view setbacks as an opportunity to learn and grow. Analyze what went wrong and make the necessary adjustments to your plan. It’s also important to give yourself some grace. Be kind to yourself, and remember that setbacks don’t define you. Everyone experiences setbacks, and how we handle them sets us apart. With perseverance, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn, you can work through any setback that comes your way.Â
Celebrating Progress in Recovery
Recovery can be a long and difficult journey with setbacks and challenges. That’s why it’s important to take a moment to celebrate the progress that’s been made along the way. Whether it’s a small victory like going a day without giving in to temptation or a breakthrough like finally finding the right treatment plan, each step forward is worth recognition and appreciation. Celebrating progress can help motivate continued efforts and create a sense of accomplishment that boosts self-confidence and determination. So, let’s take a moment to celebrate the progress made in recovery, no matter how big or small, and remember that each step forward is closer to the ultimate goal of lasting health and wellness.Â
a. Focusing on Small Wins
Focusing on small wins can be a game-changer in our personal and professional lives. We can take action and celebrate our progress by breaking down big goals or tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Small wins can boost our confidence, increase motivation, and ultimately lead to bigger successes. Whether completing a simple task at work or achieving a personal milestone, taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate these small victories can have a powerful impact on our overall well-being. So, the next time you face a daunting task, remember to focus on the small wins and enjoy the journey toward achieving your goals.Â
b. Taking Time to Reflect on Accomplishments
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s next on the to-do list without taking a moment to appreciate what we’ve already accomplished. That’s why taking time to reflect on our achievements is so important. Not only does it help us remember all the hard work we put in and the obstacles we overcame, but it also allows us to gain a sense of satisfaction and pride in our efforts. Taking a breather and recognizing all we’ve done can give us the motivation and confidence to keep pushing forward and tackling whatever comes next. So, let’s take a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate all of our accomplishments, big or small.
Eating disorders are highly treatable, and recovery is possible. It will require effort to make progress. Building a support system for yourself is one of the most important components of recovery. When you feel overwhelmed, contact friends and family or an eating disorder professional for guidance. You can also use calming techniques such as relaxation exercises and journaling to help you cope with difficult moments. With help, you can create a healthier lifestyle that allows you to recover from disordered eating behaviours. Together we can end the stigma surrounding eating disorders and support each other on our journeys toward full recovery.
This article was written by Ani. O, freelance writer.Â
Mental health issues affect nearly one in four seniors in the UK. Loneliness is often touted as a silent killer among those over the age of 65. This is down to changes in lifestyles, living conditions, health and much more. Isolation is common amongst seniors, contributing to increased mental health issues in people reaching retirement years or older.
If you are concerned your parents might be struggling with their mental health, or you want to avoid them experiencing changes to their life and mental health, there are some things you can do to help them.
Additional Support
If your parents are struggling with a change in their abilities, experiencing changes to hearing and vision or are living with poorer health, getting them some help around the home can help them to live in the same way they are used to without harming their physical and mental health. Being able to live in a clean and tidy home, get support with bathing and dressing or leaving the house can boost their mental health and help them feel more confident getting around. Home care services can be instrumental in offering support to seniors who need a helping hand but still want to live independently.
Frequent Communication
One common thing amongst the older generations is that they frequently say they feel they are no longer an essential part of their family’s life and often feel left out, excluded or forgotten about. This is where mental health can decrease rapidly. You can avoid this happening by continuing to include your senior parents in family life, talking to them frequently, and making sure they know they are wanted, loved and can speak to and meet up with you and the rest of the family.
Communities
There are many different communities and support groups of people reaching senior age, and charities such as Age UK always hold events and have outreach programs in place to support the most vulnerable. Getting your parents out and into a community group, volunteer programme, or simply socialising with those in the local area can help give them a purpose, a reason to leave the house, and a chance to mingle with like-minded others.
Recognise Changes
If you are actively involved in your parent’s life, you will be better placed to notice any changes to their physical and mental health as they occur. They could be there doing their usual routines or activities or skipping meals, or eating more. Or they could be withdrawing from people. If you can recognise changes quickly, you can get your parents the right help, be it medical care, health conditions they are experiencing or mental health support.
Being proactive in your parents’ lives can help you stay on top of their activities, mental health, and how they support themselves so you can get them the proper health and support and ensure their mental health isn’t struggling. Many seniors are reluctant to talk about these types of issues, but by showing you care and are worried about them, you can help them to make the right changes so they can live their retirement years happily and enjoy the rest of their lives.
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