HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL RESILIENCE

The cost-of-living crisis, the war in Ukraine, the pandemic – there are so many issues now it’s a wonder we can keep going. It makes being optimistic difficult.

Many people are finding this a scary and grim time.

We have five things you can do to improve your mental resilience.

They will make you feel focused and positive even during these challenging times.

1. Be kind

Be kind to yourself both mentally and physically. Eat healthily, make sure you get plenty of sleep, and be active. It’s good to relax too. Make sure you spend some time doing what you like with people you like too. Try some stress management activities such as meditation and yoga. Remember you are only human – don’t be too hard on yourself.

2. Make a difference

Try and take action on a subject that is important to you. You may not be able to change the world but doing even small things can make us feel less helpless. You can write to your MP, join a volunteer group (find out what’s going on in your area) or even start a group at work. There are lots of benefits to work-based activities that are good for your mental health.

Take it easy though. Try not to do too much at once. Try and do something every day that gives you purpose.

3. Build some support

You can build a support network around you on which you can rely. Remember you are not alone, and many people are going through or have gone through similar things to you. Talk to your friends or family, use a proactive employee assistance programme, or contact your doctor. Tell them how you feel.

Keep a strong social connection. Talking to your peers and co-workers about a shared interest is great for building relations, strengthening resilience, and preventing isolation. Interaction helps you control your thoughts and can stop them from spiralling down. There are lots of ways you can build social networks at work that will improve your mental health.

4. Learn what works

Look back to how you have coped in the past Think about the skills you have and the ways you may have been through difficult situations. Try journaling – when you write down experiences to help you understand positive and negative patterns in the way you behave.

4. Be realistic and be hopeful

You can solve everything in the world so be realistic about what you can achieve. Taking small steps and setting small goals is the best way to start. Focus on what’s causing your stress. It will help you identify and manage your worries. You cannot change the past, but you can look forward to the future.

Being positive about yourself can assist you in getting rid of any feelings of helplessness.