Mental Health Awareness Week 2016

This week is mental health awareness week and I have been a little busy with my online event over on Facebook and decided I would post on here today.  The focus this year is on relationships and the important role they play in recovery, support and life in general.

In 2006 my family really helped me to pull through one of the hardest times of my life. If it wasn't for them I dread to think the state I would have been in.  Sadly many are not so lucky and that is why it is important to make connections with people such as neighbours.  You never know who you can help by giving a little time.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of your relationships and how to create and build new ones.

A ten minute phone call, arrange a lunch or a day trip with friends or family.  Not only will it benefit your loved ones but it will also give you a chance to take a step back and refocus too while reconnecting.

I know I am guilty of this.  I use my phone to take pictures and then I end up on Facebook and Twitter without even realising I have done it. My dad tells me "put that phone down" and it's as if I was in a trance.  When we have our heads down, looking at the screens, that could be a missed opportunity for someone to open up to you. I am not saying you can't check your phone but try and be a bit more mindful. I know I will try to be.

Back in 2006, I was called all sorts, liar, freak and crazy.  Then came the other insults "You are 26, you have a good job, a good guy who loves you (this was my ex) what do you have to be depressed about?" That annoyed me then and it still does but I know it was down to ignorance.  Luckily my family were there to help me and now I also have a fantastic husband who lets me cry, shout and moan when I need to. Being there for someone is so important. You don't need to know what to say, just listening will help them so so much!

Talking about how you are feeling can help lift that weight off your shoulders.  Again, this is something that will benefit everyone!!  Talking about that hard day at school, or that bad day at work gets it out of your system and in the open which in turn will make you feel better.  No-one should be afraid to talk.  We are all human and we need that outlet.

I lost many people I thought were friends when I was diagnosed with Anxiety in 2006.  It hurt so much back then, it really did. Looking back at it now I am actually glad as I did not need that negativity in my life.  I also lost my job, that I loved to bits, but again looking back, why should I work for someone who has that attitude? If you have someone in your life who is not showing you respect or is judgemental, you can either walk away or if it is a family member, explain how it is making you feel.  You have the right to a happy life. 

As I mentioned at the start of this post, I am running an online event over on Facebook.  You can join in by clicking here.  I am also raising money for the Mental Health Foundation who carry out important research and help influence policies across the UK.  You can find the link to my just giving page here.  So far I have raised £25 of the £50 target.  Thank you to those who have kindly donated so far.