Self-care tips

It's important to look after yourself - take a look at our self-care tips below.

How to put your mental health first

There is absolutely no shame in making time to focus on getting your mental health back on track. This can be as simple as watching your favourite feel good film, to going for a walk or having a quick shower! As humans, we all have mental health. And regardless of how we feel, we all must put ourselves first every once in a while. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or feeling a bit low, give a few of our self care tips a try.

Our self-care tips

Drink more water

It may sound simple, but keeping hydrated can make a huge difference to our mood. Also, if you set yourself a goal to drink eight glasses today, you’ll have something to focus on.

Have a shower

It’s very easy to let our hygiene slip when we are not feeling our best. However, a quick five minute shower (with your favourite songs on!) will help you feel clean, fresh and like you’ve achieved something today. 

Text a friend

Getting in touch with a friend is always a great idea. Speak to someone you trust and gives great advice. You can either be open and honest about how you’re feeling (because there is no shame!) or give them a compliment, or simply ask for a catch up soon. You are never alone. 

Take a break from social media

Social media can be a great place for your mental health, but it can also be very toxic. It might be worth having a clear out of any accounts, people or businesses you follow that don’t bring you joy, or make you feel anxious or less worthy. Alternatively, switching off from your social channels completely for a while could work for you – as long as it doesn’t make you feel more isolated.

Get some fresh air

Sometimes when we are feeling low, we just want to stay indoors. But it would be amazing for you to get outside (regardless of the weather) and take some deep breaths of fresh air. Even better, take yourself for a little stroll in a nearby park, without distractions. This can really help clear the mind. 

Read a positive book

Reading is a great way to help with your anxiety as it pulls us out of our thoughts for a while. Read an uplifting, positive book for half an hour and try to focus on just this for the duration.

Have a tidy up

Having a clear out of your personal space can do wonders for your mental health. It might not seem like self-care, but having a tidy, relaxing space is really key to being able to switch off. You’ll feel amazing after doing it, too! 

Treat yourself

Sometimes, we all need a little pick-me-up. So go out and treat yourself to a fresh haircut, a new item of clothing, or that special something you’ve had your eye on for a while. We aren’t saying that spending money on material things will make you happy – but the odd treat once in a while might just help you feel better today. It’s all about baby steps. 

Do some light exercise

Going for a jog, a walk or even doing some yoga indoors can massively help when we aren’t feeling our best. Your ‘happy hormones’ will kick in after and you’ll have a great sense of achievement. If you can afford it or feel up to it, join a local gym, exercise class or Zumba session to really get the blood pumping.

Try some meditation

Although you may think meditation isn’t for you – it really is! This is the ability to switch off our minds for just a few minutes a day, and it has amazing benefits. You can start by downloading the app ‘headspace’ on your phone for free and following their step-by-step lessons. You won’t regret it. 

Donate some old items to a charity shop

After you’ve had a clear out, why not give away some unwanted things to a local charity shop? It will feel great to give to a worthy cause, and it’ll free up some space for you, too. 

Get enough sleep

It can be easier said than done if you are struggling with anxiety, but getting a good night’s sleep is a great way to feel more like yourself the next morning. Download apps like ‘Calm’ for relaxing music, listen to storm or rain sounds and try to switch off from your thoughts. Keeping electronics at bay half an hour before bedtime will really help you to unwind, too. 

I am struggling

There is no shame to admit that you are having a hard time at the moment. Please, please open up to someone you trust.

If you feel overwhelmed – you are not alone. Please do not suffer in silence.

There are so many people who care for you – and countless places you can turn to. We can help you live your best life – click the button for the first step to your recovery.

Get help and advice

Feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone.

Please do not suffer in silence. Contact one of the helplines who are on hand to listen – no problem is too big or small to talk about.

Get help