Small steps can make a big difference to our mental health

By Dr Sathya Cherukuri - psychiatrist and our associate medical director

As a psychiatrist and associate medical director at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, I spend plenty of time thinking about health. But when we talk about looking after ourselves, it is easy to focus on blood pressure, cholesterol, exercise and what we put on our plates, while forgetting about the part doing all the thinking.

Just as we take steps to protect our physical health, there are things we can do every day to support our mental wellbeing. The good news is that this does not have to mean a complete lifestyle overhaul, a colour-coded spreadsheet or suddenly becoming someone who enjoys getting up at 5am to meditate. Often, it is the small things that make the biggest difference.

Staying connected is important. A chat with a friend, coffee with a neighbour, joining a choir or club, or simply picking up the phone can all help us feel less alone.

Keeping active can help too, and you certainly do not need to run a marathon. A walk around the park, gardening, dancing in the kitchen, yoga or getting out into Somerset’s beautiful countryside all count. Movement is good for both body and mind and can sometimes be an underused medicine.

It is also worth making time for things you enjoy. Life can become a never-ending list of things we should do, but reading a book, listening to music, baking, watching something funny or spending time with the dog can give us a much-needed lift.

Do not underestimate the basics either. Sleep, regular meals, fresh air and proper breaks are remarkably effective forms of maintenance. Even our phones need charging, and we are considerably more complicated than a phone.

Finally, notice when you are not quite yourself. If you feel persistently low, overwhelmed or simply not right, talk to someone. You do not need to wait until things reach crisis point before asking for help.

Looking after our mental health should not begin only when something goes wrong. Small, consistent steps can help us build resilience and support our wellbeing throughout our lives.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, support is available 24/7. Call Mindline Somerset on 01823 276892 or 0800 138 1692, or visit the Open Mental Health website: https://openmentalhealth.org.uk/