Today marks the first day of Mental Health Awareness Week, and this year’s theme is on surviving or thriving.
Mental health is such a complex area of health, that we cannot simply find a ‘one fits all’ resolution for each individual suffering with the debilitating condition. Everyone is different, and everyone suffering uses various different coping mechanisms and unique ways to try and maintain a positive and healthy outlook on life.
If you are thriving, then well done and good for you. It takes a lot of mental and physical strength to be able to thrive and seek a positive outcome after suffering a mental health condition. Sadly, not everyone is this lucky nor do they easily overcome such conditions. If you are surviving, then that in itself is a blessing. You may not be thriving yet, but you are one step ahead of your previous, and you need to figure out what makes you happy, or at least, that little bit more positive about the future.
Here are five tips which may help take yourself from survive to thrive.
- Seek out the good – Write a list of what makes you happy in your life today. It’s a very simple and easy task which can make you think about what you have and why your life is a blessing.
- Stay active – Easier said than done, but active individuals are usually the most optimistic. Go for a bike ride, join a running club, or use your local gym. Once the endorphin’s are released you will feel the benefits and hopefully gain a more positive outlook on life.
- Set yourself some goals – Sometimes this can be the hardest thing to do, but most of the time it helps. If you set yourself some reachable goals for the coming year, no matter how big or small, these will make you feel more positive and willing to go out there and fulfil them.
- Spend time with people you love – Not much can compare with the simple pleasure that is surrounding yourself with people who make you feel good. You don’t have to spend a whole weekend together, but sometimes going for a coffee with an old friend for a chat can do the world of good.
- Focus on you– Many people suffering with a mental health condition rarely look after number one. It is so important to put yourself first and focus on your health and well-being. Decide what really makes you happy and what you love to do, look after yourself, eat healthy, drink plenty of water, and remember happiness starts from within.