Looking after your mental health and wellbeing

Worrying about the rising cost of food, energy and other essential household items can be stressful and have a major impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing. That’s why it’s important to take time out of your day to relax or do something you enjoy.

Things you could do to help yourself and others

• Talk about stress and its effects – let's work together to reduce the stigma that is associated with stress by talking about the topic openly and freely with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Share your coping mechanisms – if something has worked for you why not share it. It might benefit someone you care about and, in the meantime, it might help you take your focus off your own challenges.
• Be nice to those who are stressed and anxious – we are all undoubtedly going to experience stress and anxiety in our lifetime so treat others going through it with compassion and empathy.
• Look after yourself – we all need to think more about self–care. Take time out of your day to relax or do something that you enjoy. Don’t forget to exercise and eat well, even when you feel too stressed.
• The most crucial thing you can do when you are stressed or anxious is to make sure you are continuing to look after yourself. Make time to relax when you need to and learn to say no to requests that are too much for you.

You can find lots more information and free resources on how to recognise and manage stress on the NHS Every Mind Matters website.

Stress - Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

5 ways to wellbeing

The five ways to wellbeing are about making your life that bit brighter without having to make dramatic changes to your lifestyle.

Simple things like connecting with the people around you, going for a walk, wheel or run, being curious about your environment, trying something new, or doing something nice for a friend, can have a major impact on how you’re feeling.

Explore the link below to find out more about what is available in Cheshire West to help lift your mood and improve your wellbeing with ease.

5 Ways to Wellbeing