Worried about the election results? It’s OK to feel this way. Discover what you can do next and how to look after your mental wellbeing
It was the first winter vote since 1923. Team that with the dark days, cold weather and inevitable illness and end-of-year exhaustion, it’s not surprising if, whichever party you voted for, you woke up today feeling a little unsure about the election results.
For some, it’s mere days before we break up for Christmas. We recognise that not everyone is fortunate enough to take time off during the festive season, but this time of year tends to see us all falling a little flat. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is an issue for many, making this time of year even more difficult. Burnout is also a common occurrence, for those of us looking forward to a few days off and a new start in January.
If you are disappointed in the results today, that’s OK. If you voted for the policies you believe in, you did your part. Polling stations across the UK saw queues around the block. According to the thinktank, British Future, the new parliament will have 65 MPs from an ethnic minority background - a record level of ethnic diversity.
Elections aren’t the only way you can make a difference. As author Matt Haig sums up in his latest Instagram post: “Support homeless charities. Donate to food banks. Help tree-planting schemes. Be kind to the vulnerable. Shop ethically. Defend the environment. Support mental health. Be the change you want to manifest into the world.”
If you are worried, disappointed, scared or angry, that’s OK. Allow yourself to feel this way. Talk to friends, colleagues and share your thoughts and opinions. Think about what you can do next to push forward how you want to change the world. But most importantly, take care of yourself.
For advice on self-care...
4 Ways to Use Creative Writing for Self-Care
Research suggests that indulging in our creative side can have a tangible impact on our mental wellbeing. Fiona Thomas speaks to Suzy Reading, chartered psychologist and author of The Self-Care Revolution: smart habits & simple practices to allow you to flourish to learn more about creative writing as a self-care tool.
How to Take Care of Yourself Online
It’s easy to get swept up in the hubbub of social media trends and conversations, but when was the last time you looked at your feed and analysed its impact on your mental health? Writer Kat Nicholls explores the ways you can stay happy and healthy online.
For information on stress management…
10 Ways to Tackle Stress Right Now
We’ll all experience stress every now and then, and that’s totally normal. But persistent stress that doesn’t go away can have a detrimental effect on your health and wellbeing. Here, writer Bonnie shares 10 simple ways you can start tackling your stress right now.
What Stress Solution is Right for Me?
Sometimes, what works for some people won’t work for you. Not all of us can quell our stress by watching TV or spending time alone. Some of us may find it easier to release these feelings by socialising, exercising or going outside. The important thing in managing stress is to understand your triggers and learn what works for you.
For information on anxiety…
One of the most common mental health conditions, yet many people still go through life thinking these feelings are normal, not knowing the support available. Tips for managing anxiety include: breathing techniques, moving your body, finding support groups and seeking professional support, such as counselling or hypnotherapy.
“If there is one topic that more than anything else in recent memory has in equal terms overwhelmed, fascinated and exhausted people living in the UK, it has to be Brexit,” writes Dr. Antoni Kousoulis of the Mental Health Foundation. In this article, he explores ways to cope with, and tips for dealing with Brexit anxiety.
Looking after your mental health
How to Look After Your Mental Health Before Crisis Hits
We all have mental health, and the conversation, thankfully, continues to grow. However, many people still remain unaware that our mental health needs continuous care and attention - just like our physical health. Here, we share seven simple ways you can look after your mental wellbeing without waiting until you reach crisis point.
It may be that you feel you cannot speak to your friends or family, or you’re unable to seek support from those closest to you. That doesn’t mean you’re alone. If you’re in need of support - whether it be simply needing to talk and having someone to listen, or further advice for yourself or someone else - visit our Where to Get Help page for general listening lines, crisis support and an A-Z of mental health support.
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