Your mind is an important tool and just like your body, it needs looking after. Have you asked yourself recently how you’re feeling? Everyone experiences ups and downs in life and it’s important to recognise when you might need some extra help.
- Five ways to boost your mood
- Get some music on – crank up the volume to one of your favourite songs have a dance around the living room. Sing at the top of your voice!
- Watch something funny on TV – laughter they say, is the best medicine. It might be sharing jokes with a friend or colleague or looking at clips on YouTube. Whatever it is, getting yourself to smile can instantly make you feel happier.
- Look at old photos – research has shown that unlocking those fond memories has a great boost for your mental wellbeing. Focus on the good times!
- Chat to friends – pick up the phone and feel connected to a loved one or go one better and have a video call with them. You can talk about how you’re feeling or what activities you’ve been up to.
- Limit your alcohol intake – alcohol is typically known as a depressant so if this is excessive, it might end up contributing to low mood. A couple of drinks now and then are fine – moderation is key!
- Stress buster
- Get some exercise! This releases your ‘happy endorphins’ and can make you feel calmer in a short space of time.
- Have a chat. Sometimes it’s good to have a moan and let it all out. Connecting with other people can help ease your troubles and help you see things differently.
- Challenge yourself by taking on a new hobby or project. Not only will this give you a new focus, but it’ll also take your mind off whatever is giving you stress.
- Avoid using technology before bed. Research has shown that if you’re constantly scrolling on your smartphone or checking work emails out of hours, you’re more likely to experience stress.
- Take time for you outside of work. It might be a nice walk in your lunch hour, a gym class, reading a good book or simply having a quiet sit down with no distractions. The more you train your body to do things that benefit your mental health, the less stressed you become.
- Take a bath, relaxing in the tub is a great way to unwind and wash away the challenges of the day.
- Bereavement
This is the experience of losing someone important to us, whether that be a partner, family member, friend or a pet. It can be emotionally devastating and it’s only natural to through a range of physical and mental processes as we come to terms with the loss.
Some of the common symptoms include:
- Shock and numbness;
- Overwhelming sadness and crying;
- Tiredness/exhaustion;
- Anger; and
- Guilt.
If you or someone you know is experiencing going through a bereavement it’s worth noting the dos and don’ts on the NHS website - This link opens in a new browser window.
Don’t forget to use the Pearson Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)! To access the EAP to get help with personal issues that might adversely impact your physical and mental wellbeing while a work, simply [TBC].
