what mental health means to me...

To me, my mental health is just as important as my physical health and I believe the two go hand in hand. My mental health incorporates how I cope with life’s stressors, how I interact and mix with others and how these can influence the decisions I make.

Just as I have experienced physical alignments, I have also experienced periods of ill mental health. I have learnt to accept that it is normal and ok to not feel physically and mentally well all of the time as feelings and emotions change.

I have had periods in my life where I have initially ignored signs which led to me feeling distressed and alone. Through time and support I have learnt to identify signs which can indicate I need to look after my mental health.

During the last year, many of the strategies I have used to support my mental health have been adapted due to the impact of the pandemic. These have included ensuring I have time outside; this has included going for walks, listening to podcasts outside, reading a book in the garden, running and enjoying time walking on the beach. I find being outside regardless of the weather really helps boost and shifts my mood.

As we move out of lockdown restrictions, I am going to continue to go outdoors in order to help my mental health - i urge everyone to do the same!

Hannah Denman - Counsellor and Psychotherapist - Jacob Abraham Foundation