feature Manage stress Str

feature Manage stress Stress seems to be an inevitable part of adulthood that most of us will experience at some point in our lives. It’s been proven that whether it’s through work, relationships or money problems, stress can make the brain more susceptible to mental illness. However, there are ways in which we can reduce or manage stress to promote a sense of mindfulness and relaxation. Yoga and meditation are known to have many stress-reducing benefits and have been found to reduce the risk of anxiety and depression in expectant mothers. Above all, retaining a positive outlook during difficult times may also reduce stress. It could be as simple as smiling. The journal of Psychological Science published a study in 2012, which found that smiling during stressful periods could lower the body’s stress response, regardless of whether a person is feeling happy or sad. Find a hobby While employment may cause stress, unemployment is linked with poor physical and mental health. Being employed brings more than a way of earning a living; it provides a sense of identity and belonging, as well as offering structure to your life as you strive to meet goals. According to the Mental Health Foundation, finding a hobby or taking up voluntary work may promote good mental health. Building relationships and having interaction with other people is rewarding and can significantly improve mental wellbeing.

spend time in nature It seems 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with benefits to our health and wellbeing, according to new research. The authors of this new study, published in Scientific Reports in 2019, said theirs is the first large-scale research to quantify how much time is needed to feel the effects. The study used survey data from more than 19,000 participants in the United Kingdom, who were quizzed about their contact with nature. ‘This applies to old and young, males and females and the rich and the poor,’ said lead researcher Dr White from the University of Exeter. Nature, as defined by the study, did not have to be pristine wilderness or spectacular national parks - beaches, city parks or farmland were all included as natural environments. So going for a surf or cycle might be a great way to pair outdoor time with getting active, but physical activity wasn’t necessary to feel the benefits of being in nature – just being out there was enough. Improving your mental health is a rewarding experience and changes can be made at any time. They help you handle life’s challenges and recover from setbacks, boosting your mood and building your resilience. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness. Receiving appropriate care from a professional can help encourage us to do things we may not be able to do on our own. cbm Snapshot statistics behind mental health Each year around one in five Australians will experience a mental illness One in seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime About 4% of people will experience a major depressive episode in a 12-month period, with 5% of women and 3% of men affected Approximately 14% of Australians will be affected by an anxiety disorder in any 12-month period Women are more likely than men to seek help for anxiety disorders (18% compared with 11%) and mood disorders (7.1% compared with 5.3%) *Mindframe and Blackdog statistics www.cosbeauty.com.au 59