Taking Pride in Caring for your Mental Health

Once a taboo subject, slowly we are becoming better at talking openly about mental health. With one in four people experiencing some kind of mental health problem in the UK each year, it’s a bigger problem than we might realise, and we could all improve on how we care for ourselves and those around us.

The Stats…

According to mental health charity Mind, one in six people report suffering from common mental health problems in any given week, such as depression and anxiety. When you pause and think about the people that you know, this figure suggests many of us will know at least one person that’s struggling.

 The Mental Health Foundation says that mental health problems are even more common in people in the LGBTIQ+. A study by Stonewall found that half of LGBTIQ+ people had experienced depression, and three in five had struggled with anxiety.

 In support of pride month, here are a few ways that you can take pride in caring for your mental health and supporting those around you to do the same…

Talk Openly…

Just a decade ago, talking about our struggles, worries and feelings wasn’t the norm for everyone. While for some this might have always come naturally, others would suffer in silence. The act of bottling everything up overtime would do damage - nobody can cope completely alone with troubling or negative thoughts and feelings.

Talking is hugely beneficial, which is why thousands of us turn to talk therapy each year to work through things we are struggling with. Unlike in the US, therapy in the UK isn’t considered to be a part of normal life, and for many of us, we end upgoing to see someone as a last resort.

While it might feel difficult at first, learning to speak up about your feelings, worries, fears and struggles can have a hugely positive impact on your mental health. The saying ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ has a lot of truth behind it, as talking allows us to work through things, gain a better understanding of how we feel and how to move forward, and can offer a new perspective and support from others. Talking often results in feeling like a weight has been lifted.

Try opening up to someone that you trust. Become more mindful of your feelings, and make a conscious effort to voice something you are finding difficult. In some cases, it might be better to talk to a professional. Of course for some it isn’t always an option to go private, there are lots of charities that can offer support, and talk therapy is available on the NHS too, however there is often along wait list.

Reconnecting Mind & Body…

When we overthink, we can get too in our heads and lose that connection with our bodies, which can leave us feeling chaotic, overwhelmed and helpless. There’s a reason why practices such as meditation, yoga and mindfulness exercises are considered to support our mental health - they bring us back into the body, creating a feeling of stillness and calm.

Instead of using these methods when everything gets too much, keep on top of your mental wellbeing by practising daily, where possible. To support you with this, try Melo, our portable breathing exercise device, designed to allow you to take a step back, take a breath and reset, whenever you need.

Whether you or someone close to you needs a little more support with mental health, becoming more mindful of how to care for yours and others’ mental wellbeing can make a huge difference. Don’t struggle in silence - remember there is support available, and small daily efforts can result in a happier and healthier you.

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