Many people suffer from periods of low mood, stress or anxiety — often triggered by life events like health issues, work-related stress, bereavement or money worries. Sometimes, just the grind of daily life can get us down.
When this becomes persistent with a generalised loss of enjoyment, problems with sleeping, appetite or physical agitation, it might be time to visit your GP.
Always consult with your doctor if you experience symptoms of depression. Depending on the severity of your condition, medication and/or professional support may be appropriate. Otherwise, you may be able to manage low mood and even prevent episodes of anxiety, panic or depression with the 5 Ways to Wellbeing.
Keeping a journal or diary about your thoughts and feelings can really help you understand and process your triggers, as well as work out what works best for you.
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Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to help improve your mental health and wellbeing, these are connect, be active, take notice, keep learning and give.
For more information, click here to download the guide.
Step 1: Connect
Connecting with others can help us feel close to people, and valued for who we are. Being social means different things for different people – you might prefer being in quieter situations with one other person, or you might like being in big groups. You might like to connect with people online, or you might enjoy phone calls or sending letters.
Step 2: Get Active
Many people find that physical activity helps them maintain positive mental health.
This doesn’t have to mean running marathons or training every day at the gym. There are lots of different things you can do to be a bit more active.
Studies have shown that getting active can help you sleep better, have happier moods, and reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and racing thoughts.
Step 3: Take notice
Reminding yourself to take notice can help you to be aware of how you’re feeling. It can help you understand what triggers your feelings of stress or anxiety.
Some studies have shown that savouring ‘the moment’ can also help you to feel more positive about life.
Take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you.
Step 4: Keep Learning
We’re always learning new things – often without realising it. Feeling like you’re learning and developing can boost your self-esteem.
And sometimes, setting goals can help you to feel more productive and more in control of your life.
Step 5: Give
There’s been lots of research about the effects of taking part in social and community life. Some studies have shown that people who help others are more likely to rate themselves as happy.
For information on how to incorporate 5 Ways to Wellbeing into everyday life click here.
Speak to your GP if your mood is:
Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and your worries, fears and emotions.
NHS inform is Scotland’s national health information service, aiming to provide accurate information to help people make informed health decisions.
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