WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2021

Today is World Mental Health day and it's days like this which are so important.

It not only spreads awareness but most importantly is a starting point.

Over the last week I have been really busy with getting ready for the lead up to this big day.

120 Mile Mission

On Tuesday 5th October I took part in this months 10 mile monthly walk as part of my 120 mile mission.

I just want to say thank you to my Dad and Alastair for getting involved.

Hopefully won't be too long until I can start getting people involved with this now restrictions are easing.

If you would like to get involved virtually, then let me know.

If anyone would like to donate then click here which will take you to my fundraising page.

My next date is currently unknown.

Paul Mcgregor's Marathon

Felt so good being involved with Paul's marathon yesterday in London even though it was way out of my comfort zone but that is how we grow as a people.

No one is ever alone when it comes to mental health.

This image proves it.

We all have different journeys but we are all fighting for the same thing..

And that is to make this world a better place by building platforms to help people with their Mental Health.

If you are struggling right now then please reach out..there is plenty of help and support out there if you ever need it.

Felt so good being back out again doing what I love.

Today I have my 10 mile walk for World Mental Health Day and Paul has his final day with his 8 days of marathons.

Every moment on that exercise is fighting for change.

And it won't end today, we will continue for the next 365 days after that too

10 Mile Walk

This morning I completed 10 miles of walking in Oxford with my Dad and colleague Jane to show our awareness and support for World Mental Health Day.

Events like these show that no one is alone and for every minute we take on that walk, represents every person in the world who is suffering.

If you are reading this and struggling then please reach out.

You matter

If anyone would like to donate then click here which will take you to my fundraising page.

Health Board

Over the last couple of weeks I have been setting up the 'Health Board' for colleagues in the Midcounties Co-operative store I work at in Botley. 

Mental health is something that affects us all but so does physical and emotional health. 

This Board will be used as a communication tool for all colleagues to read, advertise any fundraising activities (health related) but most importantly signpost them to professional help where needed.

Being a Mental Health Campaigner means I have a duty to keep the conversations going when it starts being forgotten.

We all have health so let's start embracing this and make a change for the better. 

Feel free to use this idea in your workplaces as this could be the key to helping someone who is suffering.

Just don't suffer in silence.

Ten Things You Can Do for Your Mental Health

Try these tips to keep your balance, or re-balance yourself.

1. Value yourself:

Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Make time for your hobbies and favourite projects, or broaden your horizons. Do a daily crossword puzzle, plant a garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument or become fluent in another language.

2. Take care of your body:

Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to:

• Eat nutritious meals
• Avoid cigarettes 
• Drink plenty of water
• Exercise, which helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods
• Get enough sleep. Researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to a high rate of depression in college students.

3. Surround yourself with good people:

People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network. Make plans with supportive family members and friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new people, such as a club, class or support group.

4. Give yourself:

Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else. You'll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need — and it's a great way to meet new people.

5. Learn how to deal with stress:

Like it or not, stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills: do Tai Chi, exercise, take a nature walk, play with your pet or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Also, remember to smile and see the humor in life. Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body and reduce stress.

6. Quiet your mind:

Try meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve your state of mind and outlook on life. In fact, research shows that meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy. 

7. Set realistic goals:

Decide what you want to achieve academically, professionally and personally, and write down the steps you need to realize your goals. Aim high, but be realistic and don't over-schedule. You'll enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you progress toward your goal. 

8. Break up the monotony:

Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. Alter your jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk in a different park, hang some new pictures or try a new restaurant.

9. Avoid alcohol and other drugs:

Keep alcohol use to a minimum and avoid other drugs. Sometimes people use alcohol and other drugs to "self-medicate" but in reality, alcohol and other drugs only aggravate problems. 

10. Get help when you need it:

Seeking help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. And it is important to remember that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives. 

The Lucy Rayner Foundation

I wanted to reshare this image of the services that the Mental Health charity offer.

Thank you for taking the time for reading this blog post. 

IF YOU ARE REALLY STRUGGLING THEN PLEASE SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP.

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