Wellbeing with Wendy

When life gets busy, it’s important to check in with your overall mental wellbeing.

Our state of wellbeing is about the combination of feeling positive emotions and functioning well, so in moments where you do find yourself stressed, it’s encouraged to take some time and find ways to support yourself during a difficult time.

Whether it’s going through a major life transition or experiencing a stressful event, here are ways to help you look after your wellbeing.

4 ways to control your wellbeing

1. Be active in your approach when solving your problems.

Relying on others or taking no action isn’t the best approach when tackling your problems. Take the active steps to find the best solutions to help improve your wellbeing. Whether it’s seeking clarity from a friend or speaking with a therapist, finding the best ways to deal with a stressful situation is better than ignoring the actual problem.

2. Manage your environment.

Being in an environment where you feel stressed isn’t helpful for your wellbeing. Whether this stress is created at work or at home, it’s worthwhile finding ways to build an environment where you feel supported and loved. Finding enjoyable activities and having a trusted network of people can put you on track in creating a stress-free environment for yourself.

3. Create some healthy daily habits.

Whether that’s reading for half an hour each day or going for a daily morning walk, it’s important to engage in activities that nourish your mind. This can also put you in a routine where you have activities to look forward to, which can help you reframe your mind into thinking more positive.

4. Know your limits and set some boundaries.

Are you someone that’s likely to feel burnt out because you’re afraid of letting people down? It’s important to set some healthy boundaries. If you know your plate is full and you’re struggling to keep up, don’t be afraid to speak up before you start feeling overwhelmed.

Planning ahead and knowing what you’re capable of can help you understand your limits and what boundaries you need to set to avoid burn out.

Key takeaways on wellbeing

• Find positive ways to connect with family, friends or colleagues. Make an effort to strengthen those relationships. Set up a coffee date or spend some quality time on the phone – this will help you stay connected.
• Take the opportunity to be active and exercise every day. Whether it’s going to the gym for an intense work out or going for a walk, doing either of these can help increase your energy levels and give you a mood boost.
• Be appreciative of all the things that you have in your life. Rather than focusing on what’s missing, do your best to be grateful for what you have.
• Help other people by giving the time they need to feel supported. You’ll deepen your relationships and find it rewarding to do acts of kindness for others.
• Continue to learn and grow. Whether that’s taking on a new line of work or finding the opportunity to build your skill set, trying new things can help you feel confident in your abilities!

Need someone to talk to or want to help support someone?

We recommend talking to a professional if you need further support. Below are some contacts worth reaching out to:

• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Contact your local GP to discuss your needs in mental health support.
• For more resources and support, visit the Black Dog Institute’s website: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au