Feeling well is not just about being physically fit and healthy - it’s equally important to your overall health that you feel good mentally. There are several things that you can do to help support mental well-being.
Steps that support mental well-being
Social contact
Meeting friends, enjoying hobbies and getting involved in the local community makes life fulfilling and helps us to feel good about ourselves and life in general. If you find that you’re not able to do the things that you used to, why not try something new? Spending time with other people can prevent you from feeling lonely or anxious and give you a chance to share experiences, thoughts and ideas. Volunteering is a good way to meet people. Start by thinking about the kinds of things you like doing, what you’re good at and what type of organisation you want to help.Stay in touch
If you have family and friends nearby, try to meet up with them regularly or ask them to call round. Otherwise, regular phone calls can help you to stay close. The internet has opened up more ways to stay in contact, such as exchanging emails and using Skype to make video phone calls. Feeling that people care about you can make a big difference to your outlook.Make plans
People can have mixed feelings about retirement, and you may feel your life lacks purpose without work. However, it should mean that you have time to do all the things that you never had time for when you were working. Setting yourself goals, however small, can give you a sense of achievement and motivation. Your goal could be anything from finishing a crossword puzzle or making a phone call to a friend, to doing some gardening or reading a chapter of a book. Planning days out or arranging activities for the week or month ahead will give you something to look forward to and keep you feeling positive.Take a break
Whether you work or not, it’s important for your mental and physical well-being to take breaks from your routine.
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health guide