5 tips from our staff on how to look after your mental health and alleviate loneliness

Recognise your strengths and achievements

When your mood is low, it’s easy to feel really down on yourself. Take some time to celebrate small achievements, however insignificant they feel. Have a think about what you are good at and how often you have used this strength in your daily life.

Connect with people face to face

There’s lots of ways to meet people. Meetup has some fantastic groups for all ages, genders and interests. If leaving the home is difficult for you, try a local befriending service. Together Co Befriending run local social groups with transport provided as well as a much loved befriending service in Brighton and Hove. You can find other schemes here.

Volunteer

Reports suggest that volunteering has ‘favourable effects on depression, life satisfaction and wellbeing’. It’s also a great way to meet new people and gain a greater sense of purpose. With so many opportunities available, there’s something to suit everyone. Together Co are always on the lookout for volunteers, or if you’re looking for something specific, try Community Works in Brighton or Do-it nationally.

Notice the world around you

It’s corny to say but finding joy in the things around us can help boost our mood. Switch off your phone, turn off the TV and take some time to slow your pace. If possible, try to get out into nature. Notice the sights, sounds and scents around you. Even doing this for 5 minutes a day can help improve wellbeing.

Keep active

Exercise helps to release feel-good chemicals in the body like endorphins and serotonin that improve our mood. There’s plenty of cheap and fun ways to get fit, from a walk in the park to joining a local parkrun. Take a look at the Active for Life programme for things going on in Brighton and Hove. If you have a disability, the NHS offer ideas on how to improve fitness.