Caring for your mental health

The extraordinary life changes we have encountered over past months have impacted us all in different ways, not in the least in our mental health. If you have been adversely affected and are struggling with your mental health - with anxiety or depression - you are not alone. Please reach out to me, to family or a friend, to your GP or to a trusted psychologist/counsellor to help you through any anxiety, stress or depression.

Anxiety can manifest as repetitive negative thoughts, excessive worry, comfort eating, insomnia, mood swings and in many other ways. For mild anxiety you may find relief from flower essences eg Rescue Remedy or Calm & Clear drops. A quality magnesium supplement may help to relax mind and body and of course, my favourite option is medicinal herbs. A herbal tea is helpful both in the soothing ritual of tea and with the relaxing effect of some of the carminative herbs - Passionflower, Chamomile and Lemon Balm and many more.

Writing down your worries is a great way to clarify and release your thoughts and if you are experiencing insomnia, writing down those worrying thoughts before bed can tell your brain you have dealt with those problems for now, and allow you to relax into a better sleep.

Eating well, minimal wheat and sugar, and regular time in nature in my experience also promote good mental health.