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5 tips to managing your mental health

It's Mental Health awareness Week and whether you're 5 or 55, taking care of your mental health is vital for your own wellbeing as well as those around you.

Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem, but there are a few things you can do before it gets to that stage.

The NHS says: “evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life.”

Connect with other people – good relationships are important as they can:

  • help you to build a sense of belonging and self-worth
  • give you an opportunity to share positive experiences
  • provide emotional support and allow you to support others

Be physically active – being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness, it can also improve your mental wellbeing by:

  • raising your self-esteem
  • helping you to set goals or challenges and achieve them
  • causing chemical changes in your brain which can help to positively change your mood

Learn new skills – research shows that learning new skills can help by:

  • boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem
  • helping you to build a sense of purpose
  • helping you to connect with others

Give to others – small acts of kindness towards other people, or larger ones like volunteering in your local community can help improve your mental wellbeing by:

  • creating positive feelings and a sense of reward
  • giving you a feeling of purpose and self-worth
  • helping you connect with other people

We have a range of volunteering, counselling and wellbeing mentoring, and nature based opportunities available to help you engage with others and your community, learn new skills, and improve your wellbeing. And of course, our Surrey 5 Peaks Hikeathon is a great way to meet others, get active, and boost your confidence. Contact us to find out more.

Of course, if your feelings of anxiety are not going away, and are having a negative impact on your life, seek support. Speak to your GP or healthcare professional about the support available in your area.

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"It was my chance to learn some new skills, it boosted my self confidence, out on the river was like basic mental health therapy."