Past experiences, attitudes and outlook can all impact wellbeing as can physical or emotional trauma following specific incidents. A child’s wellbeing will be affected by the wellbeing of their parents, so it is essential parents have time for themselves.
What gets in the way of our wellbeing?
Stress is common and everyone experiences it. Not all stress is bad however if it gets out of balance, it can have a negative effect. This
could include side effects of:
- Emotional – low mood, irritability
- Behavioural – avoiding situations, staying in more
- Physical – poor sleep, muscle tension
- Mental – negative thoughts, excessively worrying
Five steps to boost your personal wellbeing
There are five different ways that can help boost your mental wellbeing:
- Connect with the people around you, your family, friends, and colleagues. Spend time to develop these relationships you have
- Be active by taking a walk, going to the gym, or playing a sport with friends. Make it a part of a routine every week
- Keep learning new skills, they will give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence.
- Volunteer or give to others. Even the smallest act counts such as a smile or thank you when someone helps you out. Larger acts such as volunteering at your local community centre can improve mental wellbeing and build new social networks
- Be mindful and more aware of the present moment, your thoughts and feelings and your body with the world around you. This is also called ‘awareness mindfulness’. It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges