Tips on how to get into a healthy state of mind

Friday, January 11, 2008

Take a mental "time out"
Why it helps:
When you feel anxious or stressed about a situation, it is easy to be "trapped" in it for a long time. Instead of dwelling on it, take a mental "time out" from the situation.
What you can do:
Get away from your desk for a while. A short break can help you relax and improve your mood. It will make it easier for you to assess your problem from a different light, or at least be in a better frame of mind to tackle the problem again.

Clear the clutter
Why it helps:
Whether it's your desk in the office or your study room at home, it is difficult to de-stress if you have unfiled papers, bills and magazines lying all over the place. A cluttered work space also means you waste time looking for items.
What you can do:
Set up a system to manage your papers at work. Use a file rack or a filing box to hold folders for active projects. Completed projects and reference materials can be stored in a filing cabinet. Clear the clutter regularly.

Make time for family and friends
Why it helps:
Forming strong relationships with family and friends are one of the best ways to maintain a healthy state of mind.
What you can do:
Make time for loved ones and good friends where possible.
Try to have a meal with your family regularly.
Respond to emails or text messages that friends send you. A simple reply can go a long way in maintaining these friendships.

Focus on what's positive
Why it helps:
When you recognise the positive qualities you have and the achievements you have made, it helps to reinforce your sense of self-worth.
What you can do:
Keep a notepad by your bedside. Before retiring for the night, write down at least one good thing that happened to you that day. This is an effective way of reminding yourself to pay attention to the positive things in your life.

Visit a quiet place
Why it helps:
Amid the noisy bustle of daily life, places like public parks and gardens, museums and places of worship are an oasis of peace and tranquility for our stressed minds.
What you can do:
Find a quiet place near your home or workplace. Make it your personal getaway whenever you feel overwhelmed.

Be able to laugh about it
Why it helps:
When you are under pressure, you may feel worried and frustrated. If left unchecked, it can lead to feelings of anxiety. However, if you are able to see the humour in the situation, it makes it seem more manageable.
What you can do:
Get into the habit of looking out for the funny or positive side of situations. You will not only see things in a different light, but you will also be able to laugh about it. This can significantly reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety.

Equip yourself with more than one coping skill
Why it helps:
It is important to equip yourself with more than 1 coping method. If the usual means of coping with stress cannot be employed, an alternative method can be used.However, do not resort to excessive drinking, drugs-taking and self-harm, as these are harmful to our physical and emotional health.
What you can do:
You may wish to try the following:
Deep breathing
Relaxation exercises
Fighting negative thoughts with positive self-talk
Exercise regularly
Talking it through with a friend or family member

(extract from Health Promotion Board Singapore)