World Mental Health Day: Protect your mental wellbeing with 10 essential tips

Your mental health needs are just as important as your physical needs but are often overlooked. Over time, the stigma surrounding mental health has eroded somewhat, but there’s still so much more that can be done. Employers have an important part to play in making sure people can protect and improve both their physical and mental health. 

At Westcon-Comstor, we take the health and wellbeing of our people seriously. Our Responsible Business strategy gives us the focus we need to make sure our people have the tools, knowledge, and time to take care of themselves. Mental health awareness is a year-round focus for us, with regular communications and events, support, advice, and tips.

In recognition of this year’s World Mental Health Day, here are 10 tips to keep in mind to be kinder to yourself that might work for you – everyone is different.

How to look after your mental health

1.      Prioritise self-care: Take time for yourself regularly. Engage in activities you enjoy, whatever it may be. Self-care isn't selfish; it's necessary. Dedicate time to activities that make you feel good, taking care of yourself is the foundation of good mental health.

2.      Stay connected: Maintain strong social connections with friends and family. Talking to loved ones and sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. Nurture your relationships, and don't hesitate to reach out when you need support.

3.      Manage stress: Learn and practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce the impact of stress on your mental health.

4.      Get quality sleep: Prioritise sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and cognitive function. When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope with stress and manage your emotions.

5.      Exercise regularly: Physical activity has numerous mental health benefits. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. It releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves mood. Physical activity isn't just good for your body; it's great for your mind too. Find an exercise routine you enjoy; the endorphins reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

6.      Maintain a balanced diet: Eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet. What you eat affects your mood and energy levels. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

7.      Seek professional help: If you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy, counselling, or medication can be effective treatments for many mental health conditions.

8.      Practice mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay present, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall wellbeing. These techniques train your mind to focus on the here and now, letting go of worries about the past or future.

9.      Limit screen time: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively impact mental health. Set boundaries for your screen use to avoid comparison and information overload. Technology can be a double-edged sword. Engage in offline activities that bring you joy.

10.   Spend time in nature. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood. Go for a walk in the park, hike in the woods, or simply sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

11.   Bonus: Take breaks. When you're feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to yourself to relax and de-stress. Do something you enjoy – even a couple of minutes help.

As an employee at Westcon-Comstor, here are some additional tips you can use to better support your mental health:

• Visit our multicultural calm rooms at some of our offices where you can take time out away from your desk to regroup 
• Explore the Employee Assistance Programme to see what professional help is available for you in your region
• Join our Health and Wellbeing ERG to hear from your peers and share experiences
• Attend our wellness webinars, explore our handbooks, and resources

Please remember that everyone is different. What works for one person won’t work for another. It's important to experiment with different tips to find what works for you. Mental health is an ongoing journey, and it's okay to have ups and downs. It's also okay to seek help and support when needed. Your mental health needs are a crucial aspect of your overall health, so prioritise it accordingly.