5 steps to mental wellbeing

5 steps to mental wellbeing
5 steps to mental wellbeing

Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life.

Connect with other people

  • Take time each day to be with your family, for example, try arranging a fixed time to eat dinner together
  • Arrange a day out with friends you have not seen for a while
  • Try switching off the TV to talk or play a game with your children, friends or family
  • Have lunch with a colleague
  • Visit a friend or family member who needs support or company
  • Do not rely on technology or social media alone to build relationships

Give to others

It could be small acts of kindness toward other people, or larger ones like volunteering in your local community. Some examples of the things you could try include:

  • saying thank you to someone for something they have done for you
  • asking friends, family or colleagues how they are and really listening to their answer
  • spending time with friends or relatives who need support or company
  • offering to help someone you know with DIY or a work project

Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness)

  • This includes your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you
  • Some people call this awareness “mindfulness”
  • Mindfulness can help you enjoy life more, understand yourself better, and change the way you feel about life

Be physically active

  • Read about running and aerobic exercises to help get you moving and improve your fitness
  • Read about strength and flexibility exercises to increase muscle strength, improve balance and reduce joint pain
  • If you’re a wheelchair user, read fitness advice for wheelchair users

Learn new skills

  • Try learning to cook something new. Find out about eating a healthy, balanced diet
  • Try taking on a new responsibility at work, such as mentoring a junior staff member or improving your presentation skills
  • Work on a DIY project, such as fixing a broken bike, garden gate or something bigger. There are lots of free video tutorials online
  • Consider signing up for a course at a local college. You could try learning a new language or a practical skill such as plumbing
  • Try new hobbies that challenge you, such as writing a blog, taking up a new sport or learning to paint

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