Emotional Health Awareness Day

Emotional Health Awareness Day, marked on February 24th, encourages people to teach relationship and nurturing skills in schools, workplaces and families.

With an increasing number of people struggling with emotional issues, including a growing number of children and young people, there are simple ways we can all use to help settle our minds and calm us.

There is so much going on in the world that can make us feel unsettled and anxious and our emotional health can take a real hit.

That has a knock on effect in every aspect of our lives, from relationships to work and even things we normally enjoy like sports and hobbies.

It’s important that we all take a moment to notice how we are feeling. That way we can judge whether we are looking after ourselves or if we need to take a step back and make some changes.

They don’t need to be complicated or radical; just asking yourself ‘what does looking after myself well today look like?’

Good everyday communication often lies at the heart of our emotional health and it makes it easier to bring up issues, make requests and solve conflicts which might be causing you anxiety.

A non-judgemental approach is best, and this includes how we consider our own emotional health.”

Here are some ideas that you may find helpful:

Take a note on what has a settling effect on you and make a list. It could be something like going out for a walk, a piece of music or a relaxing bath.

Make yourself an emotional health kit. This can include these things which you find helps you, such as that favourite record or even a note to yourself.

Think about any difficult feelings or unresolved issues that you carry around with you. Is it time to express them or let them go? Perhaps it’s a conversation you are avoiding or something at work you are bringing home with you? Addressing what these might be is the first step in helping to resolve them.

Spend time with friends and family to foster a strong support network. When we face difficulties, it can be common to hide it from others. Speaking to those close to you can help to find possible strategies to manage or even overcome the source of stress.

Dedicate time to activities you genuinely enjoy or try out a new hobby. Trying something new is a great way to learn more about ourselves and what we enjoy, so take the time to look into what is available around you that takes your interest.

Offer help to others. It may seem somewhat counter-intuitive but taking the time to help someone other than yourself can alleviate feelings of stress, as well as boosting happiness.

Start a gratitude journal. Regularly write down things you are thankful for to focus on the positives. Taking some time at the end of each day to note down or think about at least three things you are grateful for can boost dopamine and serotonin, giving you positive feelings of happiness and promoting mental wellbeing.

Regular physical activity. When we are feeling low we often feel like hiding away at home. But one of the best things you can do to boost your emotional health is to exercise. Exercise can improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, boosting energy, and improving mood. It can also help with sleep, self-esteem, and social interaction

Challenge negative thoughts. We’re often our own worst critic, but ‘take those thoughts to court’ when something creeps into your head and see what actual evidence you have for those negative opinions or worries.

Get a good night’s sleep. When we don’t get enough sleep our emotional health takes a hit and lead to mood swings, irritability and heightened stress. This is because when we sleep our brain is getting ready for the next day, consolidating memories and forming new pathways to help you learn and remember information.

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