7 months in & this still feels like its all surreal & a bad dream
#Covid19UK has literally changed our world with a feeling of no light at the end of the tunnel
Uncertainty, frustration, confusion & what feels like never ending doom & gloom seem to be common thoughts & feelings..

As winter approaches, nights draw in & it's cold & grey, this dark cloud that appears to be hanging over millions nationwide is only getting heavier.
Now more than ever before it's absolutely imperative that we take care of ourselves & others. We can't fix it all, but..

Our mental health & physical health is within our control & we can positively impact both.
Understanding, accepting & adapting to what we cannot change while being the driver of what we can change is key.
There are 1,000s of support groups out there to talk to and guide you..

& there is plenty we can do ourselves.
A number of key areas that I personally focus on & use with clients;
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Water Intake
- Activity Levels
- Meditation
- Goal Setting
All areas compliment the other & go hand in hand to supporting our physical & mental health

Here's some tips on how we can focus on those areas:
Sleep
- TV & phone off - no distractions
- Clean bedroom & clean bed makes for a clearer mind
- Blacked out curtains or blinds where possible
- Routine - teach your body that a certain time is time to relax & sleep

Nutrition & Water Intake
- At least 2litres per day helping to keep you refreshed & hydrated
- Healthy & nutritious meals - eat a rainbow of fruit & veg
- Eating little & often will keep you energised throughout the day
- Consistent meal times to aid routine

Activity Levels
- Get out every day - no matter the weather. Fresh air, nature & opportunity to engage with others. 10-15 min walk is enough
- Where possible 30-60 mins moderate to vigorous intensity exercise 3-5x per week
- Where possible train with others - keep social

Meditation
If you haven't tried it, try it
It'll take getting used to, it also isn't for everybody, however when done correctly enables the body & mind to fully relax into a deep meditative state & clear the mind of unhelpful thoughts & feelings
There's multiple apps available

Goal Setting
- Short term - daily/weekly achievable goals
- Goals could incorporate some of the above into your lifestyle
- Or could relate to completing tasks; such as household chores
- Small wins everyday aid positivity
- Encourages & increases sense of achievement & purpose

Nobody deserves or needs to suffer in silence & you are not alone.

I would rather listen to your story than attend your funeral #MentalHealth

@samaritans 116 123
@MindCharity 0300 123 3393
@theCALMzone 0800 58 58 58
@YoungMindsUK 0808 802 5544