Stress Awareness Week

It’s important to know that when it comes to managing your mental health and dealing with stress, one size doesn’t fit all. There is no golden rule to follow that is guaranteed to help you in times of struggle, what works for one person might not work for someone else, and that is absolutely fine and totally normal. Self-discovery is a real driving force for positive change in managing and coping with your own mental health, it takes time and effort, but after time, this discovery can help you, help yourself.

There are a number of ways in which people deal and cope with their mental struggles, from the seemingly simple, like reading a book, to the more adventurous, like going on a long hike; there is literally no right or wrong way to manage your emotions. The key is to do what you need to when you need to. Struggling is normal and nobody is immune from having moments where they are not okay. With that in mind, we asked our RHG team to share some of the ways they manage, deal and aid their mental health, and here is what they had to say.

‘’ Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed or stressed, I like to read. Reading feels like it releases pressure and the built-up tension in my head. I’m not the best reader, so having to concentrate on the page properly means that I fully immerse myself in the book and I get lost in the story, and that really calms me down’’ Nathan, Client Representative and Digital Marketing Assistant.

“If I am ever having a bad day or feeling overwhelmed, I like to take some time to myself to relax and unwind. Sometimes this will be by watching a comfort TV show that I am familiar with and know I’ll enjoy, sometimes it’ll be by listening to a podcast whilst going for a walk to get some fresh air. As more of an introvert, I personally find having this time alone helps me to recharge and then feel better!” Amber, Learner Progress & Development Officer and Designated Safeguarding Officer.

‘’There are not many days go by when I have not managed either a short jog around the park, a slightly longer trail along the local footpath, or even better a nice run along the canal towpath.  It not only helps with my fitness but allows me time to appreciate some of the beautiful surroundings of our local countryside’’ Sarah, Head of Operations

‘’Although positivity is something I try to embrace each day, it is still to be expected to have a bad day here and there. When this is the case, something I make a conscious effort to do is to get as much fresh air and exercise as possible. Having two crazy cockerpoos definitely helps to put a smile on my face and taking them for a long dog walk in crisp, fresh air also helps! I have a beautiful route I like to walk, which takes me to a local farm shop, I definitely treat myself to a slice (or two) of cake if I am having a bad day.’’  Lauren, SHE Learning Coach and EPA Administrator

There are many different ways people deal with their mental health and stress. It is key to reiterate that not everything will work, and it might take time to find that one thing that will help you, but it’s important to keep trying and eventually, you will find what works best for you.