Here are six tips by the NHS to help you feel happier, more in control, and able to cope better with life’s ups and downs.
Manage your stress levels
Introducing time management and breathing techniques, regular exercise and organising time to yourself all help to manage your stress levels.
Enjoy yourself
Doing things that you enjoy is good for your emotional well-being. Simple activities such as watching sports with a friend, having a bath or doing something you’re good at such as cooking is a way to enjoy yourself and have a sense of achievement. Try to avoid things that make you feel worse afterwards, such as drinking too much alcohol.
Boost your self-esteem
Self-esteem is the way you feel about yourself. The best way to improve your self-esteem is to treat yourself as you’d treat a valued friend, in a positive but honest way.
Have a healthy lifestyle
Things like limiting your alcohol intake, choosing a well-balanced diet, doing some exercise and getting enough sleep all contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Talk and share
Communication is important, whether it’s with a friend, family member or counsellor. Talking things through helps to release tension and strengthens your relationships and connections with people.
Build your resilience
Resilience is what allows you to cope with life’s ups and downs. Making something worthwhile from painful times helps your resilience grow. Starting a support group to help others, or making something creative such as writing, painting or singing can help you express pain and get through hard times.