This week has been Mental Health Awareness week. We are all aware of how much Mental Health can impact somebody and the people around them.

This year, the theme of Mental Health Awareness week has been Anxiety.

Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem.

Lots of things can lead to feelings of anxiety from everyday situations to bigger events in someone’s life.

This is becoming more apparent with the ‘Cost of Living Crisis’ and the effects of the pandemic.

Please see below some tips on coping with feelings of Anxiety.

(These tips have been given by The Mental Health Foundation. You can find more useful information at mentalhealth.org.uk.)

Focus on Your Breathing – When you’re having anxious thoughts try focusing on your breathing, concentrating on the feeling of your body as you breathe in and out. It can help you control the thought.

Get Moving and Healthy Eating – Exercise can give you something else to think about. It needs a bit of concentration, so takes your mind off the anxious thoughts. Any amount of exercise will help.

Eating healthy food regularly helps us to regulate our blood sugar and gives us the energy we need to live well.

Keep a Diary – Taking the time to keep a record of what’s happening in your life and how it’s affecting you can help you understand what is triggering your feelings of anxiety.

Quality Sleep –If anxious thoughts keep you awake, write them down in your diary. If sleep is still not coming, get up and have a drink (nothing with caffeine!) and wait until you’re feeling more tired before going back to bed.

Connect with People – Spend time with friends or meet other people through social support groups. If you’re able to talk to people about how you feel it can help to reduce your anxiety. Sometimes saying what’s worrying you out loud can take away its power over you.

Support for Money Worries – A common cause of anxiety is money. If you’re worried about money, seek help.

If your feelings of anxiety are not going away, are having a negative impact on your life, or often prevent you from doing things you need or want to do, seek support. Speak to your GP or healthcare professional about support available in your area.

Please see links below for further information and support on Mental Health.

Helpline services – www.mentalhealth.org.uk/get-help

Mindfulness – www.mentalhealth.org.uk/mindful

Cost of Living www.mentalhealth.org.uk/cost-of-living-support

Always remember you are not alone!