How to Look After Your Mental Health

Whether you have recently become disabled or you have lived with your disability for a long time, it’s likely that you have days where things are fine and others where they’re not.

Living with a disability comes with its challenges, from having to make sure your home is adapted in a way that works for you to access the car parking spaces that are meant to be reserved for you. In fact, there are many campaigns that are likely to highlight some of the major things that affect your day-to-day.

Take your time

It can be easy to fall into the cycle of being pressured into doing things quickly. At work, at home, during social occasions – wherever you are, if you’re feeling the pressure to keep up or be on top of things, it can cause a build-up of stress, and this can have a detrimental impact on your mental health.

Instead, pause and think about what you need to do to make things easier. Slowing down and being methodical will give you a chance to get through what you need to in a measured way, without feeling the pressure. A good work/life balance is essential to good mental health.

Do what you love

When did you last do that thing that you enjoy more than anything? That class you used to attend or seeing those friends for a catch up? Juggling work and home life can be both time consuming and anxiety-inducing at times. But by setting aside an evening to drive to your exercise session or an afternoon to go to the cinema with friends, you are more likely to come back feeling refreshed.

With the fallout of the last year still being felt, it’s more important than ever to set aside time for yourself.

Speak up

Try not to suffer in silence. If things are getting on top of you or you’re feeling anxious about something, confide in a loved one. Sharing how you feel is the first step towards looking after your wellbeing and taking the steps to preventing yourself from feeling low.

It’s not always easy to open up, especially if you’re someone who has always tried to keep going without any help from others. If you feel like you need to share, choose someone you trust and let them be your confidant.

Learn about your disability

You might have had your disability for years and feel like you know all there is to know about it. Or it may be that it’s a relatively new thing that you’re experiencing. Either way, taking the time to understand your disability and finding support from organisations that can help you can go a long way to helping you if you feel like things are impacting your mental wellbeing. Seeking expert help can be the perfect step forward for you.

Whatever you need to do to look after your mental health, allow yourself to do it. Taking care of yourself is a crucial step towards helping you come through the low days.