How and when to seek help for your mental health

Taking care of your mental health

If you've ever been on an aeroplane, you're likely familiar with the instruction, "Please put your own lifejacket on before helping others." This principle also applies to mental health. Essentially, how can you assist someone else if your own mental wellbeing is compromised? It's crucial to prioritise your own mental health before extending support to others.

Here are some key tips for maintaining your mental health:

• Stay active with gentle exercise and activities you enjoy
• Nourish yourself with nutrient-dense foods
• Prioritise quality sleep
• Surround yourself with positive influences
• Take breaks, especially during the workday
• Connect with nature
• Practice mindfulness
• Speak out and seek the help you need.

When should you get help?

Recognising when to seek the necessary help can be challenging. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding discussions about mental health often complicates this process. Many individuals still feel a sense of embarrassment or shame when acknowledging their struggles. Seeking help is an act of courage and represents a significant stride toward recovery.

If a mental health issue is significantly impacting daily life, consuming thoughts 24/7, and hindering the ability to focus or enjoy activities, seeking help is advisable.

Living alone without a confidant can be profoundly isolating, making it crucial to reach out for support. Taking the initiative to talk to someone you trust, whether a friend, family member, or colleague, is a vital first step. If anxiety persists, consulting your GP is recommended. They can guide you on the appropriate course of action and the type of assistance that best suits your needs. Remember that it's perfectly okay not to be okay, and facing challenges alone is not necessary.

Resources for mental health

Fortunately, there is a wide array of mental health support resources accessible from the convenience of your home or another preferred location. Issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, and addiction can be addressed through apps, online chats, video calls, group meetings, and one-on-one sessions. Explore this comprehensive list of resources here.

Supporting others

In addition to taking care of yourself, being aware of resources that can aid someone's mental well-being is valuable when assisting others. You can guide someone unsure of how to help themselves and simply be a comforting presence for those seeking solace or a listening ear. Offering support can make a significant difference in someone's life.

Moreover, consider enrolling in mental health first aid courses to become a mental health first aider (MHFA). Acquiring this skill is potentially life-saving and proves beneficial in both everyday life and supporting colleagues at work. Many individuals encounter mental health challenges during the workday that may go unnoticed. Having a supportive colleague can significantly impact a person's mental well-being. The absence of mental health resources in the workplace has led to a surge in sick days and resignations due to poor mental health. Explore additional ways to boost team morale at work here.

Mental health training with Paws in Work

Expand your understanding of mental well-being for both personal and others' benefit by enrolling in one of our mental health training courses today! Acquire new skills that could potentially save someone's life, and progress through three levels of expertise: be aware, champion, and first aider!

We're eager to collaborate with you and excited that you're contributing to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health discussions! Get in touch with us today to learn more and schedule a course.