Mental Health Awareness Week 2021: Our Team’s Top Wellbeing Tips

Mental health is something that affects us all and should always be taken seriously. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we decided to ask our team what helps them to stay healthy, positive and motivated – and they duly came up with some truly brilliant ideas and suggestions!

1. Be kind to yourself

Katie, our Marketing Manager, says it’s important to have some down time and not put too much pressure on yourself.

“If you need to take time out, give yourself that time. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be 100% all of the time. It’s okay to have bad days, tomorrow’s another day. 

“Sometimes we just need time for ourselves where there’s no pressure to just refocus and jump back on the treadmill.”

2. Get a good night’s sleep

Sleep is so important for our mental health and can make a huge difference to how we feel during the day.

Dave, our Lead Backend Developer, finds that listening to podcasts helps him unwind and get to sleep more easily.

“I have a pair of wireless sleep headphones which are really comfortable to wear when lying down.

“I like to listen to podcasts like Skeptoid, Darknet Diaries and Swindled. The interviews are really interesting, but I rarely get more than a few minutes in before I’m in the land of nod!”

We’ll definitely be trying that, Dave. 🙂

3. Get outdoors and stay active

Co-founder Andy says it’s important to exercise regularly and spend some time away from the computer screen each day.

“I love to unwind from work by going for a run or playing football. Snowboarding is another big passion. 

“Basically, anything that gets your body moving and takes you away from sitting at your desk all the time is a great thing for your wellbeing.”

4. Cook something that makes you happy

Frontend Developer Umar says getting in the kitchen is a great way to feel good.

“Treat yourself to a nice snack or your favourite meal. It could be a dish you haven’t had in a while, or why not try something new?

“Experiment and be adventurous with your cooking.”

We’re looking forward to you bringing some tasty treats into the office, Umar!

5. Eat the right foods

Diet can have a major impact on our mood and energy levels. SEO specialist Zukais says it’s important to eat the right foods and start your day in the right way.

“I like to start the morning with oats and dried fruit with some milk. 

“I have done so since I was 16 because it’s kept my energy levels stable. No nasty spikes or crashes.”

6. Be sure to ask for help

Dan, our Marketing Executive, emphasises the importance of asking for help when you need it.

“Sometimes we all struggle. It’s a natural part of being a human and something nobody should be ashamed of.

“Never be afraid to talk to someone or ask for some help, whether it’s with a family member, friend, work colleague or whoever. Talking about stuff makes you feel better and helps you see the bigger picture. It’s never as bad as it seems in your own head.”

7. Get out into nature

Nature is the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2021.

Our connection to the natural world is so important for our emotional health, so whether it’s going for a walk or taking a photo of a bird that lands in your garden, be sure to take some time out to appreciate the wonder of nature and celebrate the animals and plants that are all around us.

Got any other tips for good mental health and wellbeing? We’d love to hear your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.