Mental health issues can affect anyone. In fact, approximately one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year ‑ a staggering number at worst. Regardless if you’re someone who struggles or if you know someone who does, there are things we can all do to improve our mental wellbeing.
Based in Harley Street and High Street Kensington, Fiona Lamb specialises in helping her clients navigate anxiety, emotional eating, and addictions, by using a variety of bespoke hypnotherapeutic treatments. Here, she shares five habits with YCB readers that we can all adopt to improve our mental health!
1. Slow down
By making a conscious effort not to rush in life, you can feel calmer and reduce stress. Give yourself plenty of time by over‒estimating how long it may take to do tasks. Aim to arrive early rather than late and notice the shift.
2. Learn to be assertive
Assertiveness is a skill that involves open, direct and honest communication. It means knowing your feelings are justified and important and learning to say no when situations don’t align with your values.
3. Keep a routine
Building structure into your life can help you cope with change in other areas. Set your alarm for the same time every morning and plan your week; this helps you feel more in control and organised, allowing for a quieter mind. A recent genetics study has found waking up early is linked to greater happiness and a lower risk of depression so forego the lie in, get up and embrace the day!
4. Keep your space tidy
Studies have shows that people with high levels of stress tend to have untidy homes. There are even books from the likes of Marie Kondo about tidying up and the benefits it can have for our wellbeing! Learn to clear clutter and stop collecting ‘stuff’! Less clutter physically promotes serenity, happiness and clarity.
5. Let go
When you accept that you can’t control everything, you gain a level of acceptance. Learn to ‘roll with the punches’ and adopt more of an easy‑going attitude. Changes are inevitable but we can always influence how we act and react. If you find this difficult, visualise someone you know who inspires you in this way and notice how easier life feels!
