Mental health referrals have increased dramatically since the pandemic broke out, perhaps partly due to the uncertainty that’s so hard to ignore at the moment.
Although it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless when times are tough, we are capable of taking steps to manage our headspace.
There are all sorts of techniques that can be used and it’s simply a case of finding the right routines that suit you. Here’s a look at four small things anyone can do to improve their wellbeing.
Resist Comparisons
In the age of social media, it’s never been easier to get an insight into how others live. The danger of this is that it becomes all too tempting to compare yourself and your own situation to those around you.
The problem is that we usually only post about the best and most exciting moments of our lives, so it becomes an unrealistic ideal to live up to. Everyone has things they regret or suffers through bad days, weeks or even months. Try to keep this context in mind when scrolling social media.
Reach Out For Help When You Need It
It can be extremely hard to admit to your feelings when life feels like it’s closing in on you. But reaching out, even if it’s just to friends and family, can make things seem a lot easier. You might find that others are going through similar issues or have done in the past.
Don’t be afraid of asking your GP for advice on potential avenues that could steer you in the right direction too.
Take Time To Be Present
We regularly become worried about the past or the future throughout our lives, often getting stressed about things that haven’t even happened. Finding small moments throughout the day to just do be yourself can go a long way.
Whether it’s enjoying the sensation of water running over your body in the shower, or noticing the wind in the trees on your walk to work, they can make a big difference. Workouts are also a good opportunity to practice being present.
Eat And Sleep Well
As athletes, we tend to prioritise good nutrition and sleeping patterns, and they are certainly both areas to look after in order to improve your wellbeing.
Avoiding junk food and eating regularly every three to four hours are good ways to make sure your blood sugar levels stay stable, which can have a big effect on your mood.
Ensuring you get a good duration and quality of sleep will also help to keep your energy levels high.
Although it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless when times are tough, we are capable of taking steps to manage our headspace.
There are all sorts of techniques that can be used and it’s simply a case of finding the right routines that suit you. Here’s a look at four small things anyone can do to improve their wellbeing.
Resist Comparisons
In the age of social media, it’s never been easier to get an insight into how others live. The danger of this is that it becomes all too tempting to compare yourself and your own situation to those around you.
The problem is that we usually only post about the best and most exciting moments of our lives, so it becomes an unrealistic ideal to live up to. Everyone has things they regret or suffers through bad days, weeks or even months. Try to keep this context in mind when scrolling social media.
Reach Out For Help When You Need It
It can be extremely hard to admit to your feelings when life feels like it’s closing in on you. But reaching out, even if it’s just to friends and family, can make things seem a lot easier. You might find that others are going through similar issues or have done in the past.
Don’t be afraid of asking your GP for advice on potential avenues that could steer you in the right direction too.
Take Time To Be Present
We regularly become worried about the past or the future throughout our lives, often getting stressed about things that haven’t even happened. Finding small moments throughout the day to just do be yourself can go a long way.
Whether it’s enjoying the sensation of water running over your body in the shower, or noticing the wind in the trees on your walk to work, they can make a big difference. Workouts are also a good opportunity to practice being present.
Eat And Sleep Well
As athletes, we tend to prioritise good nutrition and sleeping patterns, and they are certainly both areas to look after in order to improve your wellbeing.
Avoiding junk food and eating regularly every three to four hours are good ways to make sure your blood sugar levels stay stable, which can have a big effect on your mood.
Ensuring you get a good duration and quality of sleep will also help to keep your energy levels high.
