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RUOK? Is an Australian initiative that inspires and empowers everyone to engage in a conversation with those who may struggle with life. The RUOK? Day is hosted on the 8th of September 2022.
If you think you can help someone who needs attention, or you would like to know how you can improve their mood, you are in the right place.
In this article, we will explain some easy steps to start a conversation with someone dealing with mental health issues, and give you some ideas for self-care to elevate your mood.
This year - maybe more than any other year - the importance to support each other is clear and urgent. Covid has destroyed many of the things that normally protect our mental health, from financial security to social connection and maybe even hope for the future.
The RU OK? Day can be an important day, not in the last place because we are trying to cope and recover from a pandemic, but because the psychological and social impacts will outlive the physical symptoms of the virus.
Mental Health is very common
If you struggle to cope with mental health, life can be challenging!
But don’t forget, you are not alone: 1 in 2 Australians has experienced mental health issues at some point in their life. So, it’s very likely some of your friends, someone in your family or colleagues are facing some mental health challenges too, or maybe have in the past.
What to say?
Unfortunately, although we’re better than ever before at talking about mental health, there’s still a stigma around it. But that shouldn’t deter us to start a conversation and listen. It may seem difficult to know how to respond when your family member, friend or colleague opens up to you about their mental health. Listening and showing you care, can make a big difference. It could potentially be life-saving!
It doesn’t have to be a big gesture: a simple touch, a smile or a kind word can make an impact and prove you are caring. These acts have the potential to turn life around for those who are doing it tough. If you would like more information, RUOK? has advice, including how to start a conversation.
The importance of self-care
If you feel you are trapped in your own thoughts and feelings, make sure to make time for self-care every day. Taking time to care for yourself, is having a moment just for yourself. This has many benefits for a better overall quality of life for the short-term and the long-term. Prioritise yourself: you can fit self-care into your schedule, no matter how busy you are!
Bettercaremarket has put together a few tips to help you with self-care to better look after your own health. Explore what works best for you. Different things work for different people at different times. Try what you feel comfortable with.
- Physical activity – physical activity can be a big boost to your mood. Making time for exercise is the key to long-term physical health and mental wellbeing. Just 30 minutes of activity a day will help you to live well. If you find it a challenge, start with smaller activities at home and build from there.
- Practice meditation – practicing meditation will significantly benefit you, as it helps you relax and reduce anxiety and stress. Meditation has the potential to help improve your mental state of mind, which will help your physical health. Maintaining a consistent meditation routine will ensure positive changes in the long term. Make meditation and mindfulness part of your everyday healthy lifestyle.
- Practice yoga – this form of exercise has a huge benefit for your physical and mental health. Not only will it increase your flexibility and strengthen your bones and muscles, it also improves your mood, concentration and mindfulness while relieving stress. Try a class near you, or alternatively follow an online video online. The only essential equipment you need is a yoga mat which will turn any surface at home or outside into a comfortable place to pose.
- Engage your senses - aromatherapy can help build a healthier mind. The organic compound that is used in aromatherapy is called essential oil. With the use of plants and leaves, it is a completely natural therapy. The wide range of blends is specifically designed for different mental states and emotions. The easiest way to enjoy essential oils is to use an aroma diffuser.
- Think about your food – Eating regularly and keeping your blood sugar stable can make a difference to your mood and energy levels. Nutrition is one of the best ways to serve your self-care. Vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and natural antioxidants will all help improve your health.
- Look after your hygiene – when you are not in the right mindset, you might not think hygiene is a priority. But a small thing as taking a shower and getting dressed can make a big impact on how you feel.
- Nourishing nutrients – We are all guilty of not receiving enough vitamins and minerals. Make sure you are making an active effort to improve your overall health. Stock up on Vitamin C and D to fight disease and depression.
- Monitor your health – Keeping on top of your health is essential. You may want to actively monitor simple things, like your blood pressure or heart rate, in the comfort of your own home without the stress of visiting the GP. See what’s available in our range of health monitors and self-test kits.
- Breathe easy – In our new COVID world it can be hard to take a breath of fresh air. Since the coronavirus pandemic started and the lockdown restrictions were imposed, we have all become more concerned about the air we breathe at home. Try using an air purifier to help reduce air pollutants in your home that can be harmful to your health.
Conclusion
Beginning a conversation with someone dealing with mental health issues, might be the starting point for a life-changing event. It can just be enough to make a difference to show you care. RUOK? has chosen the theme: Are you Really OK to encourage you to help a friend or a family member in need. Find the best choice to handle your mental health symptoms by choosing the effective self-care tools that you can use on a daily basis. These choices will add up to a hopefully healthier lifestyle. Start your self-care regime today!
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