Tag: health

What 6 Phases Does the Borderline Personality Disorder Relationship Cycle Consist Of? by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Kenny Eliason: Unsplash)

Those who have Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often have trouble maintaining relationships. Though not every relationship will go through these stages and the process isn’t always linear, there are six distinct phases they can go through (although each person is different). Those phases can include the following.

Idealisation

The first phase, often the start of the relationship, is the idealisation phase. Someone with BPD will shower their partner with affection, so the relationship starts out passionately. They may develop feelings fast, and they may mistake the initial feelings of passion as finding the person they’re going to be with forever. Those getting help for their mental health at a Borderline personality treatment center will learn how to recognise this phase in their relationships.

Fear of Abandonment

Once the relationship is underway, the person with BPD will end up watching everything their partner does carefully. The fear of abandonment is strong, so they end up worrying that there are signs that they will be left behind. If their partner doesn’t answer a text message fast enough, the person with BPD might feel like their partner is thinking of leaving them. This can put strain on the relationship.

Reassurance

At this point, the person with BPD will attempt to get reassurance that the partner isn’t going to leave. They might start arguments in an attempt to get the partner to prove they are willing to fight to stay in the relationship. This is often where relationships turn toxic, as the behaviour leads to more arguments and fights in an effort to get the partner to prove they’re serious about the relationship.

Distress

Because of the toxicity in the relationship, it will start to fall apart. The person with BPD will see this coming and start to feel like there’s no way to save the relationship. They’re may feel like they are empty, but they do not have a way to communicate this with their partner. The lack of communication skills can spell disaster for the relationship.

Abandonment

The person with BPD is likely to be the first one to break up the relationship. At this point, it’s difficult if not impossible for the relationship to recover, even if the person with BPD realises what they’ve done. This ultimately creates the feeling of being abandoned, so they are likely going to feel like their fear is real and will be more likely to repeat these phases in the future.

Grief

The final stage is grief. They may end up blaming themselves for the relationship ending and can engage in self-harm or other destructive behaviours as a result. Some will turn to substance abuse or risky behaviours as they grieve the end of the relationship. Depending on the severity of BPD, the intensity of the relationship, and other factors, it may not take long to get from the idealisation stage to the grief stage, which can make going through this stage worse.

BPD disorder doesn’t mean that a relationship is impossible and not all relationships with them will go through these phases. However, this is a common way that relationships play out when one of the people suffers from BPD. Therapy and relationship counselling can help both people to recover and repair from any toxic relationship patterns.

This article was written by Maya.

Alcohol Abuse: How Does It Affect Women on an Emotional Level? by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Matthew Ball: Unsplash)

Alcohol addiction can affect every area of a person’s emotional health. They may start to feel a sense of shame with their friends and loved ones. It can also affect interpersonal relationships, as alcohol can instigate arguments with loved ones. Here are some important ways that alcohol addiction can affect your emotional health.

How Brain Affects The Brain

If you attend a women’s recovery center, you’ll learn the many ways that alcohol affects the brain. Firstly, alcohol travels to the brain through the bloodstream, where it affects the neurotransmitters (the parts of the brain responsible for sending chemical messages between brain cells). Over time and when alcohol abuse occurs, the balance of these neurotransmitters is affected, which can lead to emotional instability. It can also increase the level of dopamine, causing people to become addicted to these heightened feelings of euphoria. Sometimes, alcohol also numbs emotions as well as heightening them.

How Alcohol Affects Mental Health

When alcohol abuse occurs over a long period of time, then mental health is greatly affected especially if someone has a pre-existing condition. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:

● Depression

● Mania

● Psychosis

● Anxiety

If these symptoms become severe, then treatment from a mental health professional might be required.

As women are also more prone to depression than men, alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms of depression they might already be experiencing.

Factors That Determine How Alcohol Affects The Brain

Drinking alcohol to excess will negatively impact your mental health. However, other factors include your overall physical and mental health, the amount of alcohol you regularly drink, how often you consume alcohol, how long you’ve been drinking alcohol, the age you started drinking, and certain background factors like if there is a family history of alcohol abuse present.

The Emotional Impact Alcohol Has On The Body

Since alcohol can damage the emotional centers of the brain, it can lead to severe mood swings and erratic behaviour. It has other effects on the brain as well:

● Anger: women who struggle with alcohol abuse tend to struggle more with anger over time. It can be directed at anyone and anything, leading to the destruction of relationships with loved ones.

● Stress: alcohol abuse tends to be the result of relieving stress; this is compounded by the instead of stress during withdrawal symptoms.

● Anxiety: alcohol can be used to ease anxiety, but this only worsens anxiety over the long run. Women who abuse alcohol tend to have more panic attacks and experience generalized anxiety disorder.

● Depression: women who drink heavily tend to be more depressed than others and the risk of suicide increases.

● PTSD: women who have experienced trauma and use alcohol as a coping mechanism are at risk for developing full symptoms of PTSD. Alcohol can make traumatic memories worse and more intense, increasing their feelings of anxiety and fear.

It can be difficult to overcome these negative emotions on your own, but the good news is that you don’t have to. If you fear that you are addicted to alcohol and that it is making your emotional health worse, speak to a mental health professional as soon as possible.

This article was written by Maya.

5 Potent Paths for Prolonged Pain: Where to Turn When Life Feels Overbearing by Meghan Belnap

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: free image)

Few trials in life are as demanding or relentless as those rooted in chronic physical pain or emotional trauma. For the young adult grappling with long-term afflictions, navigating through daily life can feel like traversing a battlefield with no map and an unreliable compass. 

Seeking Solace in Shared Stories 

When the weight of your struggle seems too heavy to bear, one of the most powerful avenues toward comfort and understanding is through storytelling and shared experiences. Whether you’re dealing with the debilitating effects of chronic illness, the fallout from trauma, or a blend of both, realizing you’re not alone can be profoundly liberating. 

Joining Support Groups 

Surrounding yourself with peers who understand firsthand the turmoil you face can provide a unique and invaluable support system. Consider reaching out to local or online support groups focused on your specific condition or trauma type. Here, you can share your story, glean insights from others’ journeys, and forge connections that transcend your individual pain. When you open up to a circle of understanding listeners, you’ll find that there is collective strength in solidarity. 

Creating Community 

Online forums and social media groups can serve as modern-day campfires, where you can find solidarity and support among those with similar struggles. From these virtual communities, real friendships and mentorships can blossom, creating a network that uplifts and sustains, even on the darkest of days. 

The Healing Art of Expression 

When words fail us, sometimes the canvas, the page, or the stage can amplify our voices. The creative process—whether through visual arts, music, writing, or performance—can be an outlet for the unspoken struggle within us. Engaging in art as a form of therapy not only provides an escape; it can also catalyse healing on a deeper, psychological level. Be careful though!

Exploring Therapy Through Art 

Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy that utilises creative means to express and process emotions, can be particularly powerful for young adults navigating complex internal landscapes. In a safe and guided environment, you can use artistic mediums to explore memories, release pent-up feelings, and discover new perspectives on your pain. 

Finding a Creative Community 

Being part of a creative community can cultivate a shared language around your pain that transcends traditional dialogue. Whether you join a local writers’ group, painting class, or theater troupe, immersing yourself in art alongside others can provide catharsis, camaraderie, and a fresh lens through which to comprehend and cope with your experiences. 

Professional Partners in Your Personal Battle 

With a struggle as intricate and unyielding as chronic pain or emotional trauma, it’s often necessary to call upon specialized professionals who can provide the knowledge and guidance you need to manage and, ideally, overcome your challenges. 

Therapy and Counselling 

The benefits of therapy and counselling for chronic pain and emotional trauma are well-documented. Contacting a skilled therapy center or counselling office can equip you with tools to address the cognitive and emotional aspects of your condition. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, in particular, has shown efficacy in helping individuals reframe their experiences and manage their pain more effectively. 

Seeking Medical Specialists 

Chronic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Connecting with pain management specialists, physical therapists, or holistic health practitioners can lead to innovative treatments and strategies for maintaining your well-being. For those contending with trauma, seeking out psychiatrists, psychologists, or trauma-focused therapists can pave the way toward understanding and healing deep psychological wounds. 

Navigating Life With a Compassionate Guide 

The path to healing and resilience from long-term afflictions is rarely a straight line. Sometimes, having a life coach or mentor—a compassionate and knowledgeable guide—can help you chart a course that aligns with your personal goals and values. 

Life Coaches 

Life coaches work with clients to identify areas of dissatisfaction, set goals, and make strategic plans to achieve those objectives. While a therapist may look into your past to heal emotional wounds, a life coach can help you focus on the present and future, encouraging you to move forward with intention and purpose, despite your struggles. 

The Power of Mentorship 

Mentors, too, can be instrumental in guiding young adults through the labyrinth of chronic pain and trauma. Whether personal or professional, a mentor can offer support, share wisdom, and act as a role model for resilience. A mentor’s insight and perspective can prove invaluable as you learn to not just survive, but thrive, despite the weight you carry. 

Fortifying Your Internal and External Network 

In your darkest moments, it’s crucial to know that there are sources of strength—both internal and external—to which you can turn. These can be practices that you cultivate within, or connections you foster without, that fortify you against the relentlessness of your pain. 

The Power of Daily Practices 

Mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques can serve as anchors in the storm of chronic pain or trauma. These practices help you tune into your body-mind connection, fostering a sense of control and calm that is often elusive. Establishing a consistent routine of these activities can help reduce stress, manage pain, and improve your overall quality of life. 

Building Resilient Relationships 

Cultivating healthy and supportive relationships can significantly bolster your resilience in the face of chronic pain or trauma. Whether it’s family, close friends, romantic partners, or even pets, the unconditional support and love found in strong relationships can act as a wellspring of hope and comfort. Nurturing these connections—through open communication, empathy, and mutual aid—can create a network of resources that sustain you through even the most challenging times. 

Finding your way through the intricate labyrinth of chronic pain and emotional trauma as a young adult can be daunting, but it’s not a lonely path. By reaching out to these potent sources of support and understanding, you can begin to unravel the complexities of your experiences and piece together a map that leads to a life defined not by your pain, but by your resilience and triumph. 

This article is by Meghan Belnap, freelance writer.

The Problem with Self-Medicating for Mental Health Issues by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Marcos Paulo Prado: Unsplash)

Self-medicating to resolve mental health issues can sometimes leave the door open for substance abuse. A lot of information goes into choosing the right psychiatric medicine, and it is not something you should choose without medical input. To avoid this common problem, here are a few things you should know about self-medication.

The Consequences

Mental and physical health are a top priority for dual diagnosis treatment. Depression, mania, anxiety and irritability are only a few underlying mood changes that someone may experience. On their own, these mental health conditions are already hard to deal with. When those same conditions are combined with possible substance use disorders, it creates a co-occurring disorder. As an example, a person that is suffering from anxiety will try to self-medicate with unprescribed depressant drugs. These downers are sedatives by nature, and can quickly turn into an addiction for someone who becomes dependent on how it makes them feel. These should only be prescribed by doctors and taken with care.

The Truth

When you’re aware of the consequences of self-medication, the treatment steps become much clearer as a goal. Without professional experience, you can’t diagnose the original underlying cause of your condition. Not all symptoms are created equally, and there is no way for a patient to factor in how a specific medication will interact. Psychiatric medications should never be combined with alcohol, which includes things like cough medicines. Self-medication is not good for you and your body or mind should never be the experiment to find out what works.

Risky Behaviour

Mental health stigmas are one of the reasons that people are open to the dangers of self-medication. They feel that society has a judgmental attitude towards mental health prescriptions. With self-medication, these same prescriptions and their variants are purchased after going through multiple illegal hoops.

Besides the legal issues that could arise, there is a good chance that you are not treating the correct condition. Getting medication to treat depression is a terrible idea for someone that is suffering from bipolar disorder. And when you’re suffering from anxiety, the risk of overdose rises. There is no reason to risk the mental and physical consequences of self-medicating when there are more appropriate avenues to treat your condition. Please seek help from your psychiatrist or get referred to one.

Reaching A Personal Goal

When your health is in danger, think twice about going the risky route of self-medicating. It’s easy to use clouded judgement as an excuse for not getting better. No matter how you start, a healthy mind will always be positively fuelled by making healthy personal decisions. Sometimes, self medication can turn into addiction, which can wreak havoc on your body and mind. Reach for appropriate medical support to help support your recovery.

This article was written by Maya.

World Bipolar Day 2024

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

Today is World Bipolar Day and its a day where we raise awareness globally about living with bipolar disorder and battling social stigma

When I had my first depressive and manic episodes in 2004; I was a teenager and had no idea what was happening to me. I was helped not only by family support (my dad was diagnosed 4 years before me) but also by some amazing psychiatry health professionals (shout out to Dr Mark Berelowitz at the Royal Free and the team at the Priory North London).

Bipolar changed my life as a young person in both good and difficult ways. It made me stronger; more resilient and more empathetic. But it also made me depressed, manic; anxious and fearful. There were times where I was scared of my own brain and didn’t know where bipolar started and Eleanor ended.

20 years later, I take daily medicines and engage in therapy and I go long periods between episodes due to finding the right medications. This is my own experience and some people with bipolar rapid cycle or have more regular episodes.

Remember it’s ok not to be ok but reach for support and never give up. There is a future and a way forward. I will keep talking about bipolar to help others and raise vital awareness and funds for our condition. Please also support charities like Bipolar UK and have a read of my book Bring me to Light.

Teaching Resilience to Teen Girls in a Challenging World by Dr Hannah Yang.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Yin Ge: Unsplash)

Today’s teen girls are growing up in a time that’s very different from when their parents and grandparents were young. They’re surrounded by new technology and social media that consistently exposes them to unrealistic beauty standards, cyberbullying and constant comparison to others.

This is why it’s so important for educators and parents to teach teen girls resilience – the ability to cope with challenges, bounce back from failures, and develop a strong sense of self-worth. This will then boost their mental health.

Challenges Encountered by Teenage Girls During Adolescence

The path to adulthood for adolescent girls is often lined with various challenges that significantly influence their development. While each girl’s experience is unique, there are some common struggles they frequently encounter:

Regular Use of Social Media

Building connections with family and friends is crucial for individuals of all ages. Social media has revolutionised the way we maintain these relationships, particularly over great distances. However, this constant online presence has a downside.

Many teenagers find themselves grappling with the pressure to maintain a certain persona on these platforms. Influenced by the glorified lives of young celebrities and popular influencers, as well as the need to keep pace with peers, this pressure can take a toll on their self-esteem and lead to a skewed perception of themselves.

Expectations From Friends and Family

The role of education in developing an individual’s skillset is undeniable. However, the stress of excelling academically, often influenced by lofty expectations within the family, can create significant strain on teenagers’ mental health. Comparing themselves to their peers, parents, or siblings sets high standards that can be challenging to meet.

If academic pressures aren’t managed well, they can harm a teenager’s self-esteem, particularly when they don’t meet their own expectations. It’s important for teenage girls to realise that their worth and intellect aren’t just measured by their grades or school performance.

Unhealthy Desires to Fit In

Despite the current portrayal of young online influencers as champions of self-expression, the struggle to conform to their ideals can be a significant issue for many teenage girls. Being part of a social circle can offer comfort and a feeling of belonging, which is often an essential aspect of their growth.

However, this pursuit of fitting in can lead girls to sacrifice their own beliefs and values. This may take various forms, such as changing their appearance significantly or adopting harmful eating habits, all in an effort to gain acceptance within a particular social group of peers.

The Importance of Resilience in Overcoming Challenges

Adolescent girls often draw strength from their relationships with friends and family. However, they frequently confront some of their toughest challenges when by themselves. This underscores the importance of resilience, giving them the ability to respond or recover from difficult situations.

Resilience goes beyond simply picking yourself up after setbacks. It encourages learning from these experiences and using them to build character, ultimately coming out stronger from going through various challenges in life.

Overcoming Personal Setbacks

In their formative years, young women often encounter various personal hurdles, including dealing with rejection, managing failures, or going through traumatic life events. If they don’t have strong coping mechanisms, these challenges can have lasting effects, shaping their self-confidence and future relationships.

Developing resilience equips these young women with the necessary skills to confront and overcome these challenging moments, growing stronger and more self-assured.

Learning From Success and Failure

Learning from life’s challenges doesn’t need to be a solo journey. Engaging with a mentor or participating in a support group can offer young girls new insights and different perspectives they might not have considered alone.

In situations that are more complicated, consulting with professionals in settings such as anxiety therapy or trauma therapy can provide a secure space for teens to work through their experiences effectively. These forms of support can also help young women build self-awareness of how their experiences may be having a lasting impact on their mental health while also discovering helpful coping mechanisms.

Improving Decision Making

Young individuals often possess a feeling of invulnerability and belief that they have all the answers. This combination of perceived invincibility and limited experience can result in hasty, impromptu choices, some with lasting impacts.

Teen girls who focus on building their resilience are more inclined to consider the long-term implications of their actions. They become experienced at evaluating the advantages and disadvantages beforehand, leading to wiser choices and avoiding potential mistakes.

Begin Cultivating Resilience Today

Developing resilience isn’t a one-off task – it’s an ongoing journey that demands persistence and dedication. By actively engaging in resilience-building activities and learning from both their successes and setbacks, young girls can cultivate effective coping mechanisms that will benefit them throughout their lives and help their mental health.

This article was written by Dr. Hannah Yang.

Visionary and healthcare entrepreneur by passion, Licensed Psychologist by training, Dr. Hannah Yang loves creating new possibilities in the world of mental health and wellness. Dr. Yang established Balanced Awakening in 2015 as a niche psychotherapy practice for women. As Balanced Awakening flourishes in Chicago, and soon Miami, she also loves to tap into her passion for design and Feng Shui to create fabulous environments for herself, her team, and clients.

5 Valid Reasons For Not Becoming a Mother

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Valentina Conde: Unsplash)

Women that don’t have children will often be on the receiving end of the big question of when they’re going to start having children. But, there are some women who simply don’t want to have children, and all of them are extremely valid. However, some don’t understand this concept, and if you’re wondering why someone would ever feel like that, you’ve come to the right place. While no woman should ever have to explain herself, we’re going to explore some of the reasons why a woman wouldn’t want to become a mother.

Health problems

For some women, the choice to have children may be taken away from them due to health concerns. It might be that they can’t have children because of their health, or it might even be that becoming pregnant could endanger their health. And, while there are many avenues when it comes to having children, such as surrogacy or adoption, some women would simply prefer to carry their child themselves. When this isn’t possible, they may then choose to not have children at all.

A painful history

Sadly, some women will have a difficult or painful history that might put them off the idea of having children all together. It might be that they’ve grown up with abusive parents and don’t want to make the same mistakes. Or, it could be that they’ve been through something extremely traumatic like rape, and would rather not bring that kind of history into their children’s lives, especially if they experienced a life long injury because of it. Instead, they may speak with a sexual offence solicitor and bring the offender to justice, and then move on with their lives.

They don’t want to bring a child into this world

Every person thinks about this at some point or another, and some women will choose not to bring a child into this world if they don’t believe they can provide them with a safe and happy upbringing. Others may look at the world, citing the sense of war, environment and poverty as a reason to question whether it’s a good idea to bring a child into this world.

Giving up a social life and less freedom

Another concern that some women have and choose not to give up is their social life or freedom to travel. While times have changed compared to, say, fifty years ago, it’s still common for the mother to stay at home with the child while the partner goes out to work. While it’s not impossible to have a social life when you’re a mother, it’s certainly not as easy. And, for some, this plus freedom to live the life they want to live is simply not something they want to give up.

Career priorities

Women have just as much of a right to have a successful career as men do, and some women choose to prioritise their career over having children. A career can sometimes take decades to climb and some don’t want to have time off to have children and juggle their work.

This article was written by a freelance writer.

New Children’s Picture Book Announcement and 8 Year Blog Anniversary

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 8 Comments

(image: Good Housekeeping)

Hi everyone,

I have been quite quiet on here for a while but in the background, I have been working on my NEW self-published children’s picture book. I can exclusively tell you it is called ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud‘ and will be illustrated by acclaimed artist (and good friend) Shelley Levy.

Here is our journey with Arabella…

In 2019, shortly after my book Bring me to Light was published, I wrote a short story that came into my mind about a little girl called Arabella (aged around 6/7) who had anxiety about lots of things in her life- her homework, her cat dying for example. Arabella is followed around by the Worry Cloud, a cloud who represents all her negative thoughts and worries, who threatens to rain on her. Can Arabella learn how to be ready for the Worry Cloud and replace him with positive and happy thoughts?

As a little girl, I struggled with anxiety. Some of my earliest memories are of being sick in the school lunch room aged 4 every day because I had bad separation anxiety and didn’t want to be around the bigger children. When I was about 7, I was also bullied at school and Sunday school (I was a very sensitive child) and this caused me to panic and not want to attend Sunday school so I was home schooled for a bit. I always have been a worrier. Then aged 15, anxiety reared its head again and I was diagnosed with bipolar as part of a depressive episode. I have lived with worry and anxiety most of my life…and I was born in the 80s and grew up in the 90s, where it was less understood. Though my family were amazing at supporting me.

My aim through writing Arabella is to help children to process their feelings and emotions around anxiety and to help them feel less alone. I hope that this book can be used in classrooms and therapy clinics to help children struggling with anxiety. It is for 5-7 year olds and explains Arabella’s journey with anxiety through the metaphor of finding the light in the dark storm.

The illustrator of Arabella and the Worry Cloud is my good friend, Shelley Levy. Shelley is an incredible artist and she has drawn the illustrations on her Ipad, using software. My vision to Shelley was to use old fashioned illustration, while making it contemporary and she has truly delivered and brought my characters to life. We can’t wait to show you the finished book once it has been formatted and printed and ready for sale! I am self publishing as I had sent it to various publishers including Welbeck and Pan Macmillan but for various reasons, they couldn’t publish it. However, I truly believe in the story and luckily so do others too 🙂

The sign

I knew Shelley was the right person to illustrate my book (she had given us a painting a a wedding gift) and was so thrilled she has come on board. I asked the Universe for a sign. Shelley is a friend of my dad Mike and they had gone to the theatre. At this time, I had put feelers out to Shelley, that I would like her to illustrate the book. A group of school children were sitting in front of them. They asked one of the girls their name and the girl said ‘Arabella‘. I got tingles hearing this as I had asked for a sign and had already written the title of the book (and Shelley was there)! Also, my late Grandpa Harry kept saying before he passed away in 2021, that I should write a children’s book and be the next Enid Blyton (I wish!).

8 Year Blog Anniversary

As well as this exciting project, this blog turned 8 years old on the 1st March and I just want to thank all of you for sticking with me for this long and to every single writer who has written for Be Ur Own Light this year March 23-24. Too many to list all of you but we have covered so many mental health topics and I’m so proud of all we continue to achieve together, to spread important high quality content about mental health.

There will be more about Arabella and the Worry Cloud coming soon, including images- we hope to sell it on Amazon!

Thanks for all the love and ongoing support,

Eleanor

x

5 Ways How Working Remotely Can Benefit Your Mental Health by Breanna Howell

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Kornel Mahl, Unsplash)

People are embracing working remotely; even tech companies are allowing their employees to decide whether they want to work from home indefinitely. There are several advantages of working remotely compared to working in offices, in person, but most importantly, remote work is valuable to your mental health. Here are five ways that working remotely can benefit your mental health.

1.   Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

When focusing on work, other aspects of life often end up neglected unless you have a healthy work-life balance. To be content and excited about work, employees also need leisure time to connect with their loved ones and pursue other talents and interests. Based on the time constraints, this becomes challenging with in-person work. Luckily, it is easier to find a balance when working from home; there is more time with family, and with proper management, more leisure time to pursue other interests.

If working conditions are more flexible, staff can find a healthy and effective work-life balance. Being able to work while still having a personal and social life makes them happier and improves their mental health. That is why more and more companies opt for time and attendance solutions to help their employees have a better work-life balance.

2.   Reduced Commute Stress

The daily commute is the least favourite part of a job for employees. Whether private or public transport, a lot of time is spent on the roads and you have to deal with traffic and overcrowding as everyone is in a hurry to get to their workplace. Thanks to remote work, you don’t have to worry about waking up early to beat traffic; simply prepare and start your day. You even have more time to establish an effective morning routine.

Commuting daily can take a toll on you, making you anxious and increasing your stress. You have to wake up early every day and deal with other people rushing to get to work on time. Working from home gives you a reprieve, allowing you to rest, have a good night’s sleep, and avoid traffic and congestion, which is a win for your mental health.

3.   Customisable Work Environment

With the traditional work setup, you get a designated space at the office, work with the same people, and have the same routine daily. You can also get interrupted by colleagues or have managers looking over your shoulders. The monotony and lack of freedom can negatively affect your outlook on life, sometimes even making you indifferent towards your job. Imagine working in your living room, your favourite cafe, or on the seafront. Being able to customise your space makes remote work exciting because it is not predictable; you can finally look forward to the day.

The power to control where and when you work makes you more productive because you are more relaxed and excited about your day. You can customise your workspace however you want, and that makes you happy and fulfilled, which is recommended for your mental health.

4.   Increased Autonomy

One of the advantages of working from home is that the staff gets the freedom to structure their day. Everyone knows what works best for them and can easily decide when and where they are more productive. Instead of a strict and stressful routine, you get the flexibility to choose, which has a massive positive impact on your work and overall well-being.

Autonomy allows you to prioritise the important while scheduling other activities that matter to you. Having control gives you peace of mind, calms you down, and makes you more productive, positively impacting your mental health.

5.   Opportunities For Healthier Habits

Between the daily commutes and extended office hours, there is little or no time for exercising, cooking, and eating healthy meals. Establishing a morning exercise routine becomes challenging, and many rely on calorie-rich snacks to help get them through the day. Fortunately, working from home gives you enough time to work out, cook proper meals, and develop healthier habits.

Eating healthy and exercising have a positive and lasting impact on your mental health. Being healthier can (along with other medical treatments) help issues like depression, ADHD, anxiety, memory loss, insomnia, and other illnesses that affect your productivity.

Conclusion

High stress levels are common in the workplace. There is quite a lot to deal with, from hectic daily commutes to strict schedules and a lack of time to pursue other interests and connect with loved ones. Before all these take a toll on your mental health, it is crucial to consider working from home. This way, you don’t have to worry about commuting, and you can customise your work environment and lead a healthy, happy life.

Breanna Howell is the public relations specialist at Claremont Diamonds living her dream of promoting positive public awareness of the company. As a freelance blogger and mom of two millennials, she’s also passionate about providing inspiration and support to everyone on their journey to a fantastic marriage.

This article contains a non sponsored link.

10 Bad Habits That Can Affect Your Mental Health by Caryl Ann Mason

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Caryl Ann Mason)

Today, I want to talk about something that is near and dear to my heart – mental health. I believe that taking care of our mental well-being is just as important, if not more important, than taking care of our physical health. And one thing I’ve learned in my wellness journey is that it’s easier to work on your mind if your life isn’t ruled by bad habits that affect your mental health.

You see, bad habits can really take a toll on our mental well-being. Whether it’s staying up too late, eating unhealthy foods, or procrastinating on important tasks, these habits can create a negative cycle that affects our mental state. And if we don’t address these bad habits, they can become deeply ingrained in our daily routines, making it even harder to break free from them.

Let’s talk about the habit of procrastination. We’ve all been there – putting off important tasks until the last minute, only to feel overwhelmed and stressed out when the deadline approaches. This kind of behaviour can lead to increased anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and even feelings of guilt or shame. It’s a vicious cycle that can really take a toll on our mental health.

Another bad habit that can affect our mental well-being is the habit of negative self-talk. It’s so easy to fall into the pattern of criticizing ourselves or doubting our abilities. But this kind of negative self-talk can really impact our self-esteem and confidence, making it harder to believe in ourselves and our potential.

We can’t forget about the impact of unhealthy lifestyle habits on our mental health. Poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and not getting enough sleep can all contribute to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and overall lower mood. It’s amazing how much of a difference taking care of your physical health can make on your mental health.

So, what can we do to break free from these bad habits and improve our mental well-being? It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely possible. 

I’m going to share 10 bad habits that can affect your mental health, and offer tips and insights on how to break free from these habits in order to improve your overall wellbeing.

(image: Zane Lee: Unsplash)

1. Procrastination: The Thief of Mental Peace

Procrastination is a common habit that can greatly affect our mental health. 

Putting off important tasks can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and feelings of guilt. 

Overcoming procrastination involves breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, setting clear deadlines, and creating a conducive work environment.

2. Negative Self-Talk: The Mind’s Worst Enemy

Negative self-talk can be detrimental to our mental well-being. 

It chips away at our self-esteem and confidence, leading to self-doubt and decreased motivation. 

Practicing self-compassion, affirmations, and surrounding yourself with positive influences can help combat negative self-talk.

3. Unhealthy Eating Habits: Fuelling Your Body and Mind

Poor nutrition can directly impact our mental health. 

Consuming excessive sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and decreased cognitive function. Prioritising a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can improve mood and overall well-being.

4. Lack of Physical Activity: Move to Improve

An inactive lifestyle can contribute to feelings of lethargy, low energy, and heightened stress levels. 

Incorporating regular physical activity, even in small increments, can release endorphins, reduce stress, and boost self-esteem. 

Engaging in activities you enjoy can make fitness enjoyable and beneficial for mental health.

5. Sleep Deprivation: The Silent Saboteur

Inadequate sleep negatively impacts mental health, leading to irritability, reduced focus, and increased anxiety. 

Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring a comfortable sleep environment are essential for improving sleep quality and mental well-being.

6. Excessive Screen Time: Digital Detox for the Mind

Overindulging in screen time, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to feelings of restlessness. 

Setting boundaries for screen time, engaging in offline activities, and practicing mindfulness can help reduce the negative impact of excessive screen exposure on mental health.

7. Isolating Yourself: Connection for Mental Resilience

Isolation can intensify feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. 

Cultivating meaningful relationships, seeking social support, and participating in group activities or communities can provide a sense of belonging and support for mental well-being.

8. Overcommitting: The Stress Accumulator

Taking on too many responsibilities can lead to chronic stress, overwhelm, and burnout. 

Learning to set boundaries, prioritise tasks, and practice self-care can prevent the detrimental impact of overcommitment on mental health.

9. Avoiding Mental Health Care: Ignoring the Inner Voice

Neglecting mental health needs can exacerbate underlying issues and prevent access to potential support and treatment. 

Seeking professional help, engaging in self-care practices, and prioritising mental health check-ins can promote emotional well-being and resilience.

10. Ruminating on the Past: Breaking Free from Mental Anchors

Constantly revisiting past mistakes or unfavourable events can perpetuate feelings of regret, shame, and negative emotions. 

Embracing mindfulness practices, focusing on the present moment, and reframing negative thought patterns can help break free from the cycle of rumination and improve mental resilience.

Our daily habits play a significant role in shaping our mental well-being. By addressing and modifying these habits, we can embark on a journey towards improved mental health and overall happiness. 

Remember, small changes in habits can lead to profound positive effects on our mental state. I hope this post serves as a reminder to nurture healthy habits that support your mental well-being. 

So, let’s work on breaking free from those bad habits that are holding us back and focus on creating a healthier, happier, and more positive mindset. Our mental health is worth the effort!

Caryl Ann is a blogger at https://theboredhousewife.co.uk