We all know that to keep a car going, we have to fill it with petrol, check the oil and water regularly and give the tyres some air. To see a bank balance grow, we need to make steady deposits.
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But how often do we take the time to reflect on whether we are giving ourselves what we need to flourish and live well?
People in the region are invited to a free forum next week at Cessnock Leagues Club. The forum will focus on what everyone can do to build resilience, manage adversity and take care of their mental health. It will also include information about the role everyone can play in supporting the mental health of those around them – at home, at work, at school or at play.
The forum will feature Craig Hamilton, ABC broadcaster, author and mental health advocate who will talk candidly about life’s ups and downs and what it means to stay balanced, connected and well.
Being mentally healthy and living well is important to every single one of us. It’s about enjoying life and fulfilling your potential. It’s having the ability to cope with stresses and sadness, and it’s about being connected to those around us.
Living a healthy life is also important to those recovering from mental illness and the friends and family that are involved in their lives. In this regard, Craig Hamilton is nothing but inspiring. It gives hope to those currently struggling, that life can and will be different in the future.
But it can be so easy for us to take our mental health for granted; to prioritise other things; to put it off until next week.
So ahead of the forum, why not start thinking about what you can do this week to improve you own mental health by working through these ten tips for wellbeing developed by the staff at the Hunter Institute of Mental Health.
Tip 1: Get enough sleep and rest. Sleep affects our physical and mental health, but can be the first thing we trade in when we get busy or stressed.
Tip 2: Take time out for things you enjoy. Balance in life is important, so taking time out for things you enjoy can make a difference to how you think and feel.
Tip 3: Be active and eat well. Our physical and mental health is closely linked, so adding exercise and nutritious food every day can make us feel better.
Tip 4: Nurture relationships and connect with others. Our connection to others is what builds us up and keeps us strong.
Tip 5: Learn to manage stress. If you have trouble winding down or managing thoughts you may find relaxation, yoga or writing your feelings down helpful.
Tip 6: Get involved and join in. Being part of a group with common interests provides a sense of belonging so find out about sporting, music, volunteer or community groups locally.
Tip 7: Build your confidence. Learning improves your mental fitness and taking on a new challenge can build confidence and give you a sense of achievement.
Tip 8: Be comfortable in your own skin. Everyone is unique and should be celebrated. Know who you are and what makes you happy.
Tip 9: Set realistic goals and deal with tasks one at a time. It is good to be specific when you set a goal to help keep you on track.
Tip 10: Reach out for help when you need it. Everyone needs support from time to time. Talking to a family member, a friend, your doctor or one of the many services available can make all the difference.
The forum will be relevant to everyone – individuals, carers, families, workplaces, schools, sporting clubs and other community groups.
The event will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at Cessnock Leagues Club from 6.30pm. It is free to attend, but people need to register online at www.stickytickets.com.au/27160 or call 4930 9601 to reserve a seat.
Further information about mental health and wellbeing is available at:
