Maximising Mental Wellbeing
Do you struggle to fall asleep on a Sunday night? Thinking about everything that needs to be done for the new work week or school/ college. Deadlines hanging over your head whilst trying to enjoy a Netflix series?
If the answer is yes to the above. Great news…You’re human!
It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious the day before the start of a new week. If you’re like me anxiety might not be something you only experience on a Sunday night it may be reoccurring. The good news is that you’re not only. Almost 1 in 5 (19.2%) were likely to experience some form of depression during the coronavirus pandemic in June 2020 which this figure doubled from July 2019 to March 2020. (Statistics from ons.gov.uk)
What has helped me to reduce my feeling of anxiety is going on walks, finding new routes I’ve never been before, earphones in and the world out. Allowing myself to feel present in the moment and taking in my environment allows me to feel a sense of peace and calmness which having anxiety sometimes doesn’t allow you to feel. I’ve also found consistently working out also helps reduce the feelings of anxiety and depression as it releases endorphins, which is a feel good chemical. Epecially if you do this first thing in the morning as it sets you up for the rest of the day.
Once you’ve found something that works for you is very important to stick to it as consistency is key and sticking to a routine will help you cope with anxiety and depression. However, if your depression and anxiety is unmanageable please seek advice from a professional or contact your GP.
Down below is a list of helplines and crisis contacts you can reach out to:
Call NHS 111 (for when you need help but are not in immediate danger)
www.samaritans.org or 116 123 (free to call)
Written by Kemi