Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health awareness week is all about focusing on your mental health whether you suffer from a mental health problem or not, it's always important to look after the one muscle that works 24/7. It is important that you look after your mental health as well as your physical health. 1 in 4 people will experience mental health issues each year, whether that's body image issues or suicidal thoughts. Mental illness is something that has become more known as the years have gone on. The mental health foundation Mentalhealth.org have used a green ribbon as the international symbol for mental health awareness.

3 out of 4 suicides are by men and is the biggest cause of death in men under 35. Over 12% of men in the UK suffer from one common mental health disorders, and are nearly three times more likely to become alcohol dependent. Mental health charity's like CALM is a mental health services that was created to help men who suffer from feeling lonely or sad to talk about their feelings. It allows men to chat online or meet at one of the events that they hold. Other websites like the Samaritans helpline is a helpline that can help you during anytime of the day or night. They have a number of branches around the UK and Ireland, they have a 24/7 phone line and have an email as well as letter addresses.

It's important for men to talk about their mental health as suicide is such a common cause of death. It can be incredibly difficult for men to talk about their thoughts and feelings because they may think it's not manly at all. Talking about something that you are struggling with isn't something to be ashamed of, it's the reason that the suicide rates are so much lower for women, because they are more likely to talk to people. It can be difficult to sit down and talk to someone about your feelings, straight forward, so one good way of talking to someone is by doing something at the same time. If it's a close work colleague why not tell them while you're working so you're both still doing something else while talking. If it's a friend why not go for a walk, if you have a dog that's a perfect reason to ask them to go for a walk. There should be nothing wrong with talking about your feelings, it's not girly to talk about your feelings.

With the current events that are going on, we know now more than ever looking after your mental health is important. Being stuck at home with no socializing can be extremely difficult, we have a list of things you can do to try and better your mental health without breaking the social distancing codes.

Ways to better your mental health:

- Talk to a friend, colleague, counselor, or family member (someone you feel safe talking to) over the phone.

- Take a break (Having some "me" time can be incredibly important, and allows you to de-stress)