Top tips from the Mental Health Foundation

Looking after yourself

We all have emotional and mental health, it's not just people who are feeling low or experiencing depression who could benefit from taking some positive steps to look after themselves - it's something we could all be doing.

Some of the suggestions here may seem silly or a waste of time. Not everyone gets enjoyment from the same things. The important thing is to consider doing the things that sound good to you and take some steps to help yourself feel better. The earlier you can get support from others while taking care of yourself, the better.

If you think about how we look after our physical health, like exercising regularly and trying to eat more healthily, the same applies to looking after our mental health.

Here are some of the things you can do:

• Learn to relax - try, yoga, exercise, massage, breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to music.
• Get some exercise if you can. If you find you don't have enough energy to exercise, at least take some breaths of fresh air.
• Gardening or going for walk outdoors can be soothing.
• Eat fresh healthy food - but don't feel bad about eating junk food occasionally.
• Take a long, hot bath and pamper yourself with some 'time out'.
• Make a list of things that give you pleasure. Then do something pleasurable everyday, such as reading, playing music, or walking on the beach. 
• Do something creative like writing, drawing, making something or singing.
• Take up a new hobby join a sports or social club, or start a course - learning new skills can boost your self esteem.
• Get plenty of light especially in winter.
• Listen to, or help, another person.
• Keep something close by which makes you smile such as your child's photograph, a toy from your childhood or a book that appeals to your sense of humour.
• A smile can be the start of feeling better.
• Watch a funny video or TV programme.
• Get a pet, like a cat, dog or budgie.
• Buy yourself something you want and will enjoy.
• Wear something that you feel good in.
• Share your feelings with someone you trust, who understands that you need to talk and has time to listen.
• Spend time with others, especially partners or close friends.
• Try to live one day at a time.
• Plan your day. Break difficult tasks into smaller parts. Give yourself credit for the small things you get done.
• Try to change negative thoughts to positive ones.
• Use whatever spiritual resources you feel comfortable calling on.

Source: Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand