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Mental health: Survivor suggestions

Updated Friday, 1 January 2021
Advice for everyone from our mental health survivor

Three girls looking at clothes

We look after our physical health. We also need to look after our mental health.

I had a problem in my teens and early twenties with depression and had to get help. I don't need any medicine now but I do need to take care not to let things get to me. I have to stop worrying and having negative thoughts. Here are some things that help me:

  • Start the day thinking of all the positive things that may happen
  • Get outside for at least 15 mins a day
  • Put treats into your day: reading, watching a favourite TV programme
  • Keep up with friends: find out how they are feeling, are they going through similar experiences to you? Often sharing feelings brings people closer together
  • Don't be scared to take a day off if you feel you need to look after yourself
  • Set small achievable targets to help feel in control/give sense of achievement
  • Recognise/reflect on what you did well today (this may be linked to your target)
  • Put aside negative thoughts: it's done, mistakes happen, learn from it
  • Remember you can only change your own behaviour not that of others and if people take things the wrong way that is their problem
  • Remember your intentions; then you can always explain your thoughts and feelings to yourself and if necessary to others
  • Be kind to yourself
  • Get in touch with someone if you need help e.g. The Samaritans - people often feel that their problem is not "big" enough to bother other people with, but if something bothers you it is important
  • I think mental health is all about life balance; which sounds easy but it's not always so easy to achieve

 

This resource is part of the 'Wellbeing and Mental Health Collection' created by the Open University in Wales. You can learn more and find courses, articles and other activities on the collection's homepage.

 

 


 

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