Tag: recovery

Introducing EMDR Therapy- A Guide For Those New To Treatment by Brooke Chaplan.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Unsplash: Kateryna Hlzinitsova)

Have you heard about Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy but are not sure what it is or how it works? EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is mainly used to treat Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other similar conditions. This form of therapy has been known to produce incredible results in clients with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and overwhelming fear. If you are someone who wants to know more about EMDR therapy, you are in the right place. This guide explains everything you need to know about EMDR therapy in detail. 

What is EMDR Therapy? 

EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy designed to help individuals overcome the effects of trauma and other emotional disorders. EMDR works by reprocessing the negative emotions, memories, and sensations related to the trauma so that they no longer have the power to cause distress. During a typical EMDR session, the client is guided through a series of bilateral eye movements, which induce a rapid eye movement (REM) sleep-like state that enables swift processing of traumatic memories. This form of therapy is client-led, meaning that the therapist guides the client, but the client is in control of the process. 

Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy? 

EMDR therapy is an ideal treatment option for individuals who suffer from PTSD and other traumatic or stress-related disorders. However, anyone experiencing emotional distress due to past events, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other similar issues can also benefit from EMDR therapy. 

The EMDR Therapy Process 

EMDR therapy sessions typically last 50-90 minutes, and the total number of sessions required varies depending on the individual’s needs and symptoms. An initial intake session is held to assess the individual’s needs, symptoms, and goals. During subsequent sessions, the therapist helps the individual to identify and process the negative emotions and memories related to the traumatic experience. This is done through a specific protocol that involves the client’s recall of the traumatic event and the use of bilateral eye movements to enable swift and efficient processing. The therapy ends when the client reports that the distress related to a specific memory has reduced to an acceptable level. 

Benefits of EMDR Therapy 

EMDR therapy is a unique, non-invasive, and relatively quick way to process traumatic memories and help clients overcome negative emotions. The benefits of EMDR therapy include shorter therapy duration, increased treatment efficiency, less chance of retraumatisation, and more profound and long-lasting results. EMDR does not involve any medications or invasive techniques, making it a safe treatment option for most individuals. 

Finding a Qualified EMDR Therapist 

To ensure that you receive the intended benefits of EMDR therapy, it is crucial to find a qualified EMDR therapist who has the necessary training and credentials. If in the UK, EMDR can be found on the NHS but there are long waiting lists, so you may need to find a private therapist via the Counselling Directory. If in the USA, a certified EMDR therapist should be licensed in their state, have the required training, and be registered with the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). You can also check online reviews or ask for referrals from someone who has benefited from EMDR therapy. 

EMDR therapy is a highly effective form of therapy that helps individuals process their traumatic memories, overcome negative emotions, and achieve lasting healing. If you or someone you love is suffering from PTSD or other mental health issues, we urge you to give EMDR therapy a try.

By following the EMDR therapy process, working with a qualified EMDR therapist, and staying committed to the treatment, you will be able to live a healthier and happier life. We hope this guide was helpful in introducing you to EMDR therapy, and we wish you the best on your healing journey. 

Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer.

6 Small Things That Can Help You Manage Your Mental Health by Anita Ginsburg.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 5 Comments

(Image: Unsplash: Gabrielle Henderson)

Mental health can be a difficult topic to address, but it is important for everyone to prioritise their wellbeing. There are many ways to manage your mental health, but sometimes the simplest methods are the most effective. This blog post will be discussing six small things that can help you maintain good mental health. These tips are practical, easy to implement, and can make a significant difference in your life.

Keep a Gratitude Journal

It can be easy to focus on the negative aspects of our lives and dismiss the positive. Taking a few minutes each day to jot down things that you are grateful for can shift your mindset and improve your mental wellbeing. Write down three things that you are thankful for each day before going to bed, and reflect on them at any time when you feel overwhelmed or stressed. This practice will help you appreciate the good things in your life and keep you motivated.

Take Breaks From Technology

Technology is increasingly becoming a significant aspect of our lives, and it is often difficult to disconnect. Technology is useful, but it can also be an additional source of stress. To promote good mental health, allow yourself to take breaks from accessing technology and spend more time engaging with people or relaxing in other ways. Read a book, meditate, or go for a walk in the park instead of scrolling through social media. Taking a break from technology can help you unwind and recharge.

Reach Out to Your Support System

The people who care about and support you can play a crucial role in helping you maintain good mental health. Reach out to those in your support system when you need reassurance, affirmation, or guidance. If your family or friends are not readily available, you can always seek professional support through counselling, therapy, or hotlines. Remember that it is okay to ask for help.

Engage in Hobbies or Activities That You Enjoy

Engaging in activities or hobbies that bring you joy can contribute significantly to your mental health. Find new activities or hobbies that you enjoy or rediscover old ones that you may have abandoned. Starting or continuing  collection is also a good way to get out of the house and devote your energy to something new, starting with stores like Go Earth Coins & collectables which have lots of options of things to start collecting. Being creative, learning new things, and experiencing novel experiences can help you feel more fulfilled and satisfied in life. You can also join clubs or connect with groups that share your interests to feel more connected and fulfilled.

Practice Self-Compassion

Being kind and compassionate to yourself should be a core aspect of your daily routine. Self-compassion means recognising your strengths as well as your self-improvement goals, acknowledging your mistakes without excessively criticising yourself, and treating yourself kindly. You can practice self-compassion in several ways, including speaking kindly to yourself, treating yourself to small gifts or experiences, and regularly complimenting yourself.

(image: Unsplash- Tim Mossholder)

Get Enough Sleep

Getting sufficient sleep is essential for both your physical and mental health. Make sure you get enough sleep and avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, especially before bedtime. Create a sleep-friendly environment, which includes having a comfortable sleeping space, a consistent bedtime routine, and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, including reading books, taking a warm bath, or meditating to help promote restful sleep.

Good mental health is essential to a fulfilling life, and small things can make a significant difference. Start by implementing these six small things to promote your mental health, and other healthy habits will follow suit.

Remember, maintaining good mental health is a journey, and it requires practice. Take the time to look after yourself, and you will reap the benefits.

Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer.

The Power of Group Therapy For Individuals Dealing With Chronic Illness: by Lizzie Weakley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 6 Comments

(image: Priscilla Du Preez, Unsplash)

Chronic illness can take a toll on one’s physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Individuals struggling with chronic (long term) illness often feel lonely, isolated, and anxious, leading to a decline in their overall quality of life. While individual therapy can be helpful, group therapy can offer additional benefits and support. Group therapy allows people to connect with others who understand and relate to their struggles.

A Sense of Community and Connection

The sense of community and connection that group therapy provides can be incredibly powerful for those dealing with chronic illness. Often, those dealing with illnesses can feel isolated and misunderstood. In a group therapy setting, individuals can connect with others who are going through similar experiences and struggles. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of comfort and understanding, with a qualified therapist.

Learning from Others

In group therapy, people can learn from others who are further along in their journey. For example, someone who was recently diagnosed with an illness may feel scared and uncertain about their future. Hearing from someone who has been living with illness for a longer period of time can offer hope and reassurance and also provide practical support.

Psychoeducation

Some group therapy can provide an opportunity for psychoeducation on chronic illnesses. Members can learn about their illness, medications, treatments, and therapeutic interventions that can help reduce their symptoms. This can give them a sense of control and improve their quality of life.

Better Coping Skills

Chronic illness can be overwhelming and stressful; it often requires individuals to develop new coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms. In a group therapy setting, individuals can learn new coping skills from other members. This can include stress management techniques, mindfulness exercises, and ways to manage pain or fatigue. Learning new coping skills can lead to a reduction in anxiety and an improvement in overall mental health.

Mutual Support

Whilst in group therapy, members can offer mutual support to one another. Those who are having a particularly difficult day or week can lean on other members for support and encouragement. Group members can offer a listening ear or share coping strategies that have worked for them. This provides a sense of comfort and fosters a sense of belonging.

Group therapy can be a valuable tool for individuals struggling with a chronic illness. It provides a sense of community and connection, the opportunity to learn from others, psychoeducation, better coping skills, and mutual support. If you are struggling with chronic illness, consider seeking support through group therapy.

Remember, you are not alone. There are others out there who understand and can support you on your journey. You can also be referred for therapy.

Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer.

Tips For Finding The Right Psychiatrist For Your Needs: by Brooke Chaplan

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: free image)

Mental health is just as important as physical health and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in one’s life. But choosing the right psychiatrist can be a daunting task. Finding the right person who understands your needs, and creates a treatment approach that suits you, can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some helpful tips for finding the right psychiatrist for your mental health needs.

Ask for Referrals (If Private)

Start by asking for referrals from trusted sources such as family, friends, or a primary healthcare provider if you are going privately. You can’t always choose who you get referred to on the NHS, if you live in the UK but have to trust your GP will refer you to someone good. It’s always a good idea to get recommendations from people who have gone through similar experiences and found a psychiatrist that was helpful to them. Additionally, you could check with your GP or local mental health clinic for referrals.

Check Credentials

Psychiatrists are medical doctors with additional education and training in psychiatry. It’s important to ensure that the psychiatrists you’re considering are board-certified in psychiatry, meaning they have undergone a rigorous training and certification process (in the NHS they will be certified). If going privately, check out their education, training, and professional experience to ensure they hold a reputable degree from a top-rated institution and possess the license to operate.

Consider Experience and Specialisations

A well-experienced psychiatrist would be more likely to handle specific issues than a psychiatrist who is new to practice. You’ll want to find a psychiatrist that has experience in treating the specific mental health conditions or concerns you may have. For example, if you’re dealing with anxiety, you’ll want to seek out a psychiatrist who specialises in anxiety disorders.

Insurance Coverage (For USA/ private insurance)

If you have private health insurance, check with your provider to see which psychiatrists are in-network to help out with the cost of treatment. You may also ask your psychiatrist if they offer a payment plan to make their services more affordable. If in the USA, If you don’t have insurance, consider seeking treatment at community health clinics that offer sliding-fee scales. If in UK, this is free via the NHS but can be a long waiting list, if you are not at crisis point.

Trust Your Instincts

Lastly, trust your instincts. You want to feel comfortable with the psychiatrist you choose, so it is important to ensure that their communication style and methods align with what works best for you. During your first appointment with a potential psychiatrist, pay attention to how the psychiatrist speaks, if they listen to you, and how they react to your concerns. It’s important to choose someone you can feel comfortable opening up to.

It’s important to take the time to find a qualified psychiatrist you feel comfortable with, to help manage your mental health. Referrals from trusted sources, verifying credentials, experience, insurance coverage, and your comfort are all important factors in selecting the right psychiatrist to suit your needs. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be more confident in your search for the right psychiatrist.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and a qualified psychiatric professional can help you feel better mentally, emotionally, and physically.

If you’re in the UK: check out`: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer from the USA.

How Mental Illness Can Affect Our Coping Mechanisms.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Unsplash)

Coping mechanisms are strategies that people use or develop in order to deal with, or avoid dealing with, difficult and stressful emotions or situations. Whilst some people may use exercise, a healthy diet or meditation as a way to process difficult feelings, it can be very easy to fall into unhealthy habits instead, especially if we have pre-existing mental health conditions.  

For example, those who have suffered with eating disorders may automatically fall back into restrictive eating habits or fall into a pattern of binge eating when life gets difficult. Whilst we can easily beat ourselves up for not ‘handling things’ in a healthy and productive manner, it’s important to remember that coping mechanisms serve an instinctive purpose. In times of stress, we seek comfort and safety. On a biochemical level, unhealthy coping mechanisms are serving that purpose.  

That doesn’t mean we should allow them to continue, however. Part of overcoming mental illness is learning how to cope in healthy ways that serve a higher purpose for you long term. Here, we will take a closer look at how mental illness can affect our coping mechanisms, and how you can learn to shift your unhealthy coping habits into more helpful ones. 

Why mental illness makes us vulnerable 

Mental illnesses come in a wide variety, and each person will experience them slightly differently to the next. But essentially, mental illness means that our brains aren’t working exactly how they should. This can warp our perception, and make us feel more anxious, stressed, insecure and prone to depression than we would be otherwise. 

When we are stressed, we seek instant comfort. Our brains instinctively drive us to seek the quickest fix and push us to run away from our cause of stress. This is why when you are really, really hungry, all you want to do is eat sugary foods such as chocolate – your body knows that’s the quickest fix for its hunger, even though you know consciously that it’s not the healthiest option. 

For people with mental illness, this stress response can trigger a repetition of a familiar pattern of negative behaviour that instantly soothes or avoids the initial problem, but also creates bigger issues long term. 

Recognise your behaviour 

It’s important to recognise when we are relying on unhelpful coping mechanisms to avoid facing stress, as they can lead to more serious mental and physical problems. If you are fixating on something that is not going to help you long term, such as obsessive cleaning, isolating yourself from family and friends, or abusing alcohol, you need to consciously recognise the signs that your habits are not serving you. 

You may find it helpful to write down the root causes of your negative habits, and commit to facing the problems head on instead of allowing them to cause you further problems. Talking to someone you trust can be a massive help and relief, and can help you springboard yourself into a better place mentally. 

Make small changes 

Often when our mental health is low, we can feel overwhelmed by the thought of fixing everything. Remember, your perception is magnified when you are struggling mentally, so everything will seem worse and harder than it truly is. Being kind to yourself and committing to changing just one small habit at a time can be really helpful in focusing on what you can achieve – one step at a time.  

Speaking to a health professional can be an intimidating thought, but sometimes it is necessary in order for us to make profound changes to our health and wellbeing. There is no shame in asking for help, and you are not alone. By recognising when our coping mechanisms are beginning to be less than healthy, we can make the choice to improve them. 

This article is written by a freelance writer.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health When Living Alone: by Anita Ginsburg.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Unsplash)

Living alone can be an amazing experience. You get to enjoy your own company, have complete control over your home, and create your own unique environment. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Living alone can also be lonely, isolating, and downright scary at times. It’s even more challenging when we’re going through something that affects our mental health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some practical tips for taking care of your mental health when living alone.

Create a Routine

One of the biggest challenges of living alone is that we don’t have anyone else to be accountable for. We can sleep all day, watch Netflix all night, and neglect our responsibilities without any immediate consequences. This can lead to a lack of structure and routine, which can have a negative impact on our mental health. Creating a simple routine can help provide some structure to your day and give you a sense of purpose. Start by defining what your day should look like from the moment you wake up until the moment you go to bed. This doesn’t have to be complicated – it can be as simple as waking up at the same time every day, doing some exercise in the morning, working for a few hours, and then taking some leisure time in the afternoon.

Stay Connected

Living alone can be incredibly lonely, especially if you’ve recently moved to a new city or lost touch with friends and family. Social connections are essential for our mental health, so it’s important to stay connected with others in any way possible. Calling or texting friends and family, joining a virtual book club, or connecting with others on social media can all help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Create a Comfortable and Safe Home Environment

Living alone can also be scary sometimes, especially if you’ve had negative experiences in the past. It’s important to create a comfortable and safe home environment that you enjoy spending time in. This can include things like decorating your apartment with things that make you happy, investing in a security system, and ensuring that your doors and windows are locked at all times. Feeling comfortable and secure in your home can help alleviate anxiety and stress.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

Taking care of your physical health is crucial for your mental health, especially when living alone. When we don’t have anyone else to motivate us or remind us, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can all help improve your mental health.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

Lastly, if you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Living alone can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help you cope with mental health challenges, including therapy, a psychiatrist, support groups, and hotlines. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Living alone can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to take care of your mental health when living solo. Creating a routine, staying connected with others, creating a comfortable and safe home environment, taking care of your physical health, and seeking professional help if necessary can all help alleviate mental health challenges. Remember, you’re not alone – there are many resources available to help support you on your mental health journey. So, take care of yourself and enjoy the independence and freedom that comes with living alone.

Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer form the USA.

5 Effective Strategies To Manage Stress As An Entrepreneur.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Radu Florin, Unsplash)

We all know that being an entrepreneur comes with its fair share of exhilarating highs and daunting lows. The constant pressure to innovate, meet deadlines, lead, and overcome obstacles can take a toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing. 

This is where stress management comes into play. It is important for entrepreneurs to manage their stress, as stress can affect creativity, energy and judgement. If you are an entrepreneur who needs guidance with stress management, read these five effective strategies below: 

Strategy 1: Prioritise Self Care

Self-care is anything you do to take care of yourself – mentally and physically. By taking care of yourself, you promote relaxation. Although relaxation cannot take your stress away entirely, it sure helps. 

Self-care can come in the form of walking around the block, meditating in your garden, taking a warm bath, or even picking up your guitar and pulling some strings. 

To prioritise self-care, you must set up a self-care routine and stick to it; for example, every day after work, set aside an hour for meditation. 

Strategy 2: Delegate And Outsource

As an entrepreneur, you might be used to doing everything independently. It is after all the hard work that got you to the point of owning a business. But you do not have to do everything anymore. 

An overload of work causes an overload of stress, so start delegating and outsourcing tasks – it can be anything from delegating administrative tasks to outsourcing Content Marketing. 

To give you peace of mind, find trustworthy people to handle these tasks for you. Hire the right team members and research and compare outsourcing partners to ensure you have the best. 

Strategy 3: Improve Your Time Management Skills

Time management is a word that often gets entrepreneurs running in the opposite direction. It can seem like an insurmountable task to take on, especially when so many responsibilities come with running a business. 

However, time management is essential for handling your stress. To better your time management skills, create a to-do list, set up a time-blocking system, and prioritise your daily tasks. 

Luckily this is the modern age, so you can use many online time management tools – Trello or Asana are just two of them. So please don’t let stress get the best of you just because your day is filled with tasks; utilise these tools! 

Strategy 4: Develop A Support Network

People need people, no matter their personality. If you are going through a tough time, reach out to your family members, your friends, or even a trusted business partner/employee. 

Talking about how you are feeling is known to reduce stress because it gives you an outlet to vent. 

So leverage the support of those closest to you; you will be surprised at how much better you feel. 

Strategy 5: Adopt Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress reduction techniques are daily practices you can implement to help reduce your stress. Popular stress reduction techniques include deep breathing exercises, visualisation, and journalling. 

Deep breathing exercises can help you relax by focusing on controlled, long breaths that slowly move in and out of your body. Visualisation involves visualising a calming scene or activity, such as a beach or a walk in the park. And journaling your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet for difficult emotions. 

You can always contact a professional if you’re unsure about these techniques. They have the necessary skills and knowledge to teach you how to effectively use each technique. 

Start innovating, meeting deadlines, leading and overcoming obstacles with a healthy mindset.

By following these five effective stress management strategies, you will be an unstoppable entrepreneur! 

This article was written by a freelance writer,.

10 Steps To Managing Your Anxiety by Anita Ginsburg.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Joice Kelly at Unsplash)

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but sometimes it can become overwhelming and interfere with your daily life. If you’re struggling with anxiety, you don’t have to go it alone. There are many effective strategies for managing anxiety that psychiatrists and mental health professionals use every day. Here are 10 proven strategies for reducing anxiety and taking control of your thoughts and feelings.

Identify Your Triggers

The first step in managing your anxiety is to identify what triggers it in the first place. Is there a specific situation, person, or event that causes you to feel anxious? By recognizing these triggers, you can begin to take steps to avoid them or find ways of coping when they do arise.

Keep a Stress Journal

Keeping track of your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to gain insight into how your body reacts to certain situations and how best to manage them. Write down any physical sensations, emotions, or triggers that contribute to your anxiety so that you can better understand what’s causing it and how best to deal with it.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise is not only a great way to burn off pent-up energy but also helps release endorphins which act as natural mood boosters. Even just a few minutes of exercise each day can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental wellbeing.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Taking time out of each day for relaxation is essential for keeping your stress levels low. Take up yoga, practice deep breathing exercises, or listen to calming music before bed each night—whatever works for you. Finding activities that bring about relaxation will help reduce the intensity of your anxiety over time and lead towards more peaceful days ahead.

Talk To Someone

Talking about the things that are causing you anxiety is often the first step in taking control of it again; whether it be with family members, friends, or even professional psychiatric services, like New Tele Doc, if needed. Having someone else who you trust to talk through issues with can help put problems into perspective and provide clarity on potential solutions going forward—something we often need when dealing with our own anxieties.

Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can exacerbate existing anxieties so make sure you get at least 7-8 hours per night whenever possible; if not more depending on personal circumstances. If insomnia is an issue then try getting outside during daytime hours (weather permitting) as exposure to sunlight helps regulate the body’s natural circadian rhythm which aids in quality sleep later at night.

Eat Well and Drink Water

Eating well balanced meals throughout the day helps keep energy levels high while avoiding unhealthy snacks or sugary drinks which can cause blood sugar spikes/drops leading towards feelings of fatigue/anxiousness respectively. Similarly drinking lots of water helps ensure good hydration levels which makes us feel more alert mentally whilst providing physical benefits too.

Practice Mindful Meditation

Mindful meditation involves focusing on one’s thoughts without judgment in order to allow yourself some time away from any negative self-talk or worrying thoughts; allowing yourself time away from such things has been proven beneficial for those struggling with anxiety issues. It’s important however not to focus solely on this technique as other methods should always be employed alongside mindful meditation too when tackling any difficult issue such as this one.

Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

Both caffeine and alcohol are known stimulants which if consumed regularly can increase adrenal hormones leading towards heightened states of fear, anxiety, and nervousness. Try replacing coffee/tea based beverages (which contain caffeine) instead with green tea or fruit juices (which don’t!) as these are far healthier options overall particularly when trying to combat any pre-existing anxieties already present within oneself.

Break Negative Thinking Patterns

Lastly breaking negative thinking patterns involves challenging any irrational beliefs we may have about ourselves by looking at evidence objectively. This could involve writing down pros and cons for certain decisions we make before acting upon them so we have an understanding of why certain actions should be taken based upon factual evidence rather than assumptions made from our own potentially skewed perspectives.

Everyone experiences periods of worry from time-to-time but learning how best to manage those worries will increase your confidence in being able handle similar situations better next time they arise. By following the above 10 steps anyone suffering from regular bouts of anxiety will likely find their overall quality of life improving dramatically once proper management techniques become part of their daily routine! Psychiatric services such as therapy sessions/medication may also be necessary depending upon individual circumstances. Seeking medical advice should never be seen as a sign of weakness but rather strength instead because ultimately tackling problems head-on is better than running away from them indefinitely.

Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer.

5 Ways Good Physical Health Can Improve Mental Health by Lizzie Weakley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: free image)

It’s no secret that physical and mental health are closely linked. When you’re physically healthy, you tend to feel better mentally and emotionally. The reverse is also true; when your mental health is suffering, your physical health often declines as well. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your physical health, especially if you’re struggling with mental health issues. Here are five ways that good physical health can improve mental health.

Improved Mood

When you’re physically healthy, you tend to have more energy and feel better overall. This can lead to an improved mood and a more positive outlook on life. If you’re feeling down, try getting some exercise or eating a nutritious meal. You may be surprised at how much better you feel afterwards!

Increased Relaxation

When you take care of your physical body, it helps reduce stress and tension. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, and can also help you sleep better at night. A healthy diet provides your body with the nutrients you need to function properly, which can also help reduce stress levels. If you’re struggling with food intake, consider consulting with a dietician who is trained in mental health. They’ll be able to assist you with services tailored to help you both mentally and physically!

Improved Concentration and Memory

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve brain function. Eating a healthy diet has also been linked with improved cognitive function. If you’re having trouble concentrating or remembering things, try adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet and increasing your activity level. You don’t have to do this all at once, but can gradually adjust your diet to include more whole foods.

Greater Sense of Accomplishment

When you set goals for yourself and then achieve them, it gives you a sense of accomplishment and boosts your self-esteem. Getting regular exercise and eating right are both great ways to set and achieve goals that improve your physical health while also improving your mental well-being. Consider rewarding yourself when you hit certain goals, such as finishing three days of exercising in a row. Before you know it, you’ll be forming healthy habits!

Enhanced Coping Skills

Having good physical health can give you the strength and endurance you need to get through difficult times. When you’re physically healthy, you have more energy to put towards coping with difficult situations. You can also use exercise and healthy eating as positive coping mechanisms when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out. There’s a reason why many people like to go on a walk to clear their mind. Consider adding in these healthy coping mechanisms the next time you’re stressed.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, taking care of your physical health is a great place to start. There are many benefits to be gained from eating right and exercising regularly, not the least of which is improved mental well-being. So if you’re feeling down, try using some of these tips to boost your mood and improve your mental health.

This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.

4 Ways To Improve Employee Wellbeing.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(Image: Brooke Cagle: Unsplash)

Considering the wellbeing of employees has never been more important, or more timely. With world events like the coronavirus pandemic having a serious impact on global mental health, more and more employers have begun to more seriously consider the overall wellbeing of their employees, not simply their productivity in the workplace. 

In fact, many employers are beginning to understand how the two are intimately connected.Indeed, it is reported that healthy employees are 74% more likely to be satisfied with their current job than unhealthy employees.

It is therefore important for companies to consider ways to improve employee wellbeing. Below is a list of tips for improving the wellbeing of your employees.

Training and Long-Term Goals

The reason that many employees are unhappy at work is that they feel they have stagnated, spending years in a particular position without any opportunity for growth or new responsibilities. 

It is therefore important to understand the individual professional goals of your employees and how you might deploy training and development schemes to help them achieve those goals. An employee is much happier if they feel they are working towards a goal or new opportunity, not simply stuck in a 9-5 grind. 

It is well worth investing in personal development schemes to help employees recognise and develop their individual talents. These schemes can come in the form of lecture series or workshops, training schemes or bootcamps. 

Flexibility

It has been reported by several studies that allowing employees greater flexibility regarding when and where they work can greatly improve mental health. Allowing flexible working hours  and locations can help employees feel a greater sense of autonomy over their personal and professional lives. 

Obviously this involves a degree of coordination, since employees must still be able to work collaboratively throughout the day, but studies have shown that more flexible scheduling can lead to greater wellbeing and productivity.

(image: Stefan Stefanovic: Unsplash)

Social Engagements

It is important for the wellbeing of employees to work in a friendly and collaborative workplace environment. Creating opportunities for social, non-work engagements for your employees is not just a chance for them to let off steam, it can be a vital way of helping employees build meaningful and productive social relationships with their colleagues.

If staff are on friendly terms, they are more likely to look forward to coming into work, as well as more likely to collaborate successfully with their colleagues on work-related tasks. A social and amicable work environment almost always leads to a happier and more productive workforce.

Creating a healthy office environment, full of friendly social links, can be achieved in several ways. One way is the more informal route of arranging after-work social engagements (or weekend trips) for your employees. Or you could go the more formal route of arranging dedicated team-building days or afternoons. 

There are a myriad of ways of creating a friendly workplace environment, but it is inarguable that doing so will lead to greater wellbeing among all employees. 

Strategize and Focus on Mental health

Many people believe that their mental health issues can at least partly be attributed to the pressures and strains of their professional lives or because they require financial assistance. It is therefore essential for employers to focus on creating an inclusive environment where mental health issues can be discussed and tackled in an open, honest and compassionate way. 

There are many ways in which employees can address mental health issues in the workplace. One is to create, and follow, a comprehensive wellbeing policy. The policy should signpost ways in which the company works to address mental health issues as well as the resources that the company provides for employees in regards to mental health management. 

Creating a workplace environment in which mental health is clearly seen to be a priority will foster a greater sense of emotional security and wellness for your employees.