Many of us have spent the last few weeks overindulging in luxurious foods which can make us feel sluggish and tired. It is little wonder that we may begin to experience ‘the January blues.’ The good news is that there are plenty of ways to boost your mood and help make yourself feel better. AWARE has created the following three steps for you to follow to help improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the best ways to fight depression and boost your mood. This doesn’t mean you have to join a gym or fork out a lot of money on exercise classes – a brisk walk in the fresh air is perfect. Finding the energy to motivate yourself may be difficult, but you will feel a big difference after you exercise. Taking on a new challenge and setting yourself a goal might be a good idea.

Perhaps you could start walking and aim to complete the 8 mile walk as part of the Belfast Marathon in May 2019 and help raise money for AWARE? Information on how to register can be found here - Register by clicking this link then simply email fundraising@aware-ni.org to get your free AWARE fundraising pack.

Eat Well

When we are feeling down, we sometimes crave fatty and sugary foods. These foods may give an instant energy boost but could make you feel worse as their effect wears off. These foods also suppress our mood and can exacerbate symptoms of Depression so try to avoid them. Next time you feel hungry, instead of reaching for the biscuit bin, reach for the fruit bowl and aim to incorporate between 5 – 10 pieces of fruit and vegetables each day. You could also add pulses such as nuts into your diet to snack on. These foods are all known to help boost your mood and improve your overall mental wellbeing. Making sure you are drinking plenty of water is also important.

Seek Help

Depression symptoms often go unrecognised but if you have any of the following symptoms and they last for more than 2 weeks you should seek help immediately.

• Feelings of hopelessness
• Low energy
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Tearful and emotional

Depression can affect anyone at any stage in their life, and the important thing to remember is that help is available. AWARE offer Support Groups throughout Northern Ireland that meet on a weekly and fortnightly basis with no appointment needed. The groups are completely free of charge and open to anyone living with depression. For more information, follow the link - www.aware-ni.org

If you would like to read more, visit the Health Advice section and read more on Mental Health.