How to Help your Mental Health in January

January can come with a lot of pressure, to change yourself and/or to start new things. This can all be positive, but it can also cause anxiety and unwelcome expectations. If you decide to make changes, take time and be kind to yourself. Things might not always go to plan and that is ok. There is nothing worse than starting a new challenge and then falling at the first hurdle.

Here are a few ways you can make changes in a gradual way:
• Make realistic goals
• Check in with yourself making sure you are happy with the changes you are making
• If you take a step back or have a slip up that is ok, just start again

If changing things seems like too much right now, then take a moment and appreciate what you have and where you are. One of the Five Ways to Wellbeing is to be in the moment, this can be a great way to stop and appreciate where you have been and where you are.

Remember to:
Acknowledge how you are feeling:
• Prioritise self care; the festive season can be busy and full of people. Do something for yourself in January
• Practice self-compassion
• Get enough sleep
• Stay active
• Reach out to others, use your support system

There are so many ways to get active in North Somerset. There are health walks across every part of the county and these can be a chance to meet new people and to get out and about. Find out more about health walks here.

Getting the whole family out can boost everyone’s mental health this January. One great way to do this is with Park Play. You can find a park play near you every Saturday Morning.

January can seem like a long month but take it one day at a time and the daffodils will soon be popping up through the ground and spring will be here.