As 2018's Mental Health Awareness Week approaches (14th May-20th May) it aims to tackle stress.
Endured stress can affect both your physical and mental wellbeing. Continued strain on your body from routine stress may contribute to serious health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other illnesses, as well as mental disorders like depression or anxiety. If unrecognised or untreated these conditions can lead to self harm or suicide.
Anyone can be affected and we can all do our part in supporting those who are. Talking to friends, family or colleagues can go a long way, however sometimes this may not be enough. A healthy diet, exercise and reducing alcohol and nicotine intake is proven to reduce stress levels. It is important to seek help from a medical professional, your GP can advise you on both medication and non medication based treatments such Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Research suggests Mindfulness meditation can be helpful for managing and reducing the effect of stress, anxiety, and other related problems in some people.
If you'd like to know more about Mindfulness you can contact out Health and Well-being Nurse who can facilitate a course near you.
Take care of each other.
Happy Mental Health Awareness Week everyone.
The Castle Team