Looking after your WELLBEING
These days it’s easy to see how life can become overwhelming with all the negative news impacting on our lives. Amidst all the distractions it’s possible to lose sight of what’s really important. Worrying about money can contribute to poor mental health which can affect anyone. It is important to be kind to yourself and reach out for help when you need it.
Focus on what you can control
When we are facing a crisis of any sort, fear and anxiety are inevitable; they are normal, natural responses to challenging situations infused with danger and uncertainty.
The single most useful thing anyone can do in any type of crisis is to focus on what you can control.
Acknowledge your thoughts. It is ok to share your concerns with others that you trust — doing so could help them too.
Prioritising your wellbeing
Look after yourself. Make sure that you’re taking care of your basic needs like eating, sleeping and interacting with people.
Make time for the things you enjoy, whether that’s spending time outdoors or connecting with the people you care about.
Remember the 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing and use these to improve your mental and emotional health.
Know when to ask for help and who can provide that help. Visit CommunityWellbeing.info for information on services and support.
Dealing with negative news
It’s been a tough few years with what seems like endless bad news stories. It’s important to protect your mental health if you’re feeling overwhelmed by negative news coverage.
Take time out from the news if you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s okay to tune out for a while.
Set some boundaries if you want to stay informed but don’t want to be afraid. Choose one or two reliable news sources and limit your exposure to other current affairs coverage.
CommunityWellbeing.info has more tips on dealing with a negative news cycle.
Getting enough sleep
Your mind and body need time to recharge. Losing out on sleep and self-care time can make you feel irritable, confused and irrational.
A good sleep routine can help you stay safe and healthy. You can improve your sleep routine by
- getting into a good sleep pattern
- treating your bed as a place for sleeping, not somewhere to have difficult conversations, work or eat
- learning how to switch off your thoughts so you can enjoy a good night’s sleep
Find out more about improving your sleep routine at CommunityWellbeing.info
Be kind to yourself
Make an effort to focus on you by starting a new hobby or scheduling time to focus on an old one.
Revisit your favourite book or take a bath and listen to a playlist of relaxing songs.
CommunityWellbeingNI has a great resource of things you can do to get your Five Steps to Wellbeing a day. Check out the ideas here.
Help to manage the rising cost of living
CommunityWellbeing.info has more information on managing the rising cost of living
