mental health awareness day

Mental Health Awareness Day

Today is Mental Health Awareness day and according to World Health Organisation depression will be the leading illness globally by 2030. if we do not act to combat this disease.

In the UK we have 615 million people suffering from Anxiety and Depression and 1 in 4 people will experience one diagnose Mental health condition, statistics that are higher in Ethnic minorities.

So If we live in a society that caters to our every need why is it that Mental health especially in Young people and those from ethnic backgrounds are on the rise?

Well most answers point to our lifestyle, the breakdown of communities, debt, the breakdown of families, racism, sexism thatall contribute to our mental and emotional distress.

I have candidly explained my own struggle with anxiety as a young woman here

Every year there is a theme for Mental health awareness day and this year the theme is Psychological First aid, and the support people can provide to those in distress.

The World Health organisation has listed tips and ways to support and donate to this cause on their website

I have listed 5 tips on how to cope with Panic attacks and anxiety.

1.  Anxiety and Panic Attacks are normally about an underlying problem so the first step is finding a counsellor or therapist (through your GP or support group) that will help you work through any issues.

2. Exercise or yoga classes will help Anxiety and if your mind is racing then Astanga or Power Yoga will help you because of the active style will encourage you to focus on the postures that will occupy an anxious mind..

3. Complimentary therapies were invaluable to me and my clients when I worked as an Aromatherapist/Healer.  Oils that help Anxiety and depression such as Frankincense will encourages deeper breathing which is hell to somebody hyperventilating due to Anxiety.  

Frankincense - Great for relaxing and slowing your breath and calming the mind.

Geranium - Good for balancing and uplifting your mind.

Bergamot - One of the best oils for Depression (please be careful of sunlight).

Rose essential Oil -  A workshop participant who had severe depression used pure Rose essential oil and found this lifted the depression, excellent for grief also.

4.  The practice of mindfulness ; Being in the present can help, I use my art to help with anxiety or meditation.  Art journallingor working with colouring books can help.

5 The practice of gratitude - Listing small accomplishments of your day, week or life is said to help and improve your mental health.

We also have essential oil sets available in our store or join one of our workshops or courses.

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