Be kind to your mind – remember, you are not your thoughts

We all have mental health, and we all live our lives with ups and downs, creating our own story. 

Suicide Prevention Week is aimed at increasing awareness and decreasing the stigma associated with mental health.   In 2022, it is heart breaking that most of us can say we are aware of someone lost in this manner, whether family, friends, colleagues or even people in the limelight that we have insight into their personal lives.

Anyone can feel this way.  Mental health affects us all and this is why it is so important to understand.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that one million people die each year from suicide.  One million people every year are gripped so tightly by depression and despair that they see no other option to escape these feelings.

Many of us are feeling anxious with life at the moment.  However, if you are aware that someone you know is behaving differently and are showing signs such as an unrelenting low mood, pessimism, hopelessness, desperation, anxiety, excessive rage or anger, these could be emotional cues to suicidal thoughts.

If you are struggling in any way, please reach out to a friend, colleague, family member or a workplace Mental Health First Aider to talk.   Likewise, if you notice a friend, colleague or family member has changed and are exhibiting some of the above signs, reach out.  Talk to them.  It starts with a simple conversation.

Here are a few important things to remember if you are struggling in any way:

“You don’t have to be perfect”

“Having a bad day is ok”

“Asking for help is a strength”

“Be gentle with yourself you’re doing the best you can”

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase just take the first step”

Furthermore, find below some helpful ideas to encourage you to relax and be mindful of yourself and your surroundings:

• Turn off your phone – removing these distractions can help you relax and enjoy being in the moment
• Take slow deep breaths – this creates a focus on what’s going on in your body
• Use all your senses – smell the air, listen, look closely and use touch to feel and appreciate your surroundings
• Exercise! Even a simple walk outside can help

There are also a number of professional organisations who are always available to help, guide and provide advice:

The key thing is be kind to your mind – remember, you are not your thoughts.