Here are Magstim’s tips to look after your mental health and where to get advice and support when you need it.
Don’t isolate yourself
Although many people tend to distance themselves when they’re feeling low, socialising can help improve your mood. Stay in touch with friends and family and let them know how you feel.
Eat healthily
If you’re suffering from depression it can be easy to avoid eating or comfort eat. Try to stick to eating healthy and regularly. It is important to eat a regular, balanced diet for your body and mind to work efficiently.
Get out and about
Exercise and natural light can help improve your mood. Try and get as much daylight as possible. Even as little as a 20 minute walk can benefit your health and frame of mind.
Talk to someone
It is good to have someone who will listen to you. If you don’t feel comfortable talking about your feelings with a family member or friend, there are many support groups or support lines where you can talk to someone.
In the UK; Call Samaritans FREE on 116 123,
In the USA; Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline FREE on 800-273-TALK (8255). The NAMI helpline can also provide advice between 10am & 6PM, ET on 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Drinking excess alcohol will not help your feelings go away. In fact, alcohol or drugs can have a detrimental effect on mental health. Try to limit your intake and cut it out completely if possible.
Do something new
Is there anything you wanted to do for a while but have never found the confidence? Doing something new can help lift your mood, give you something to look forward to and provide a chance to make new friends.
Help each other
Remember we’re all in this world together. Someone who you’d least expect could also be having low days and need support. Help each other through the good and bad days.
Face your feelings
Is something causing you to worry? Don’t shy away from things that you’re worried about, tackling them might help you feel better.
Set goals
Take each day as it comes but try to set small goals, these can be as little as getting up and out of the house. Daily goals will give you a sense of achievement, as well as, tackling some anxiety fears.
Get help
If you, or someone you know, have had a consistent low mood for more than 2 weeks and/or your mood is affecting your daily life, contact a professional.
You are not alone, >300 Million people globally suffer from clinical depression; your doctor can discuss potential treatment options with you. If you have thoughts of self-harm, or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor immediately.
Don't give up
If you have a diagnosis of depression and are still suffering, or your anti-depressants are not working for you; TMS could be the answer you’re looking for. With daily session for 6 weeks, you could be back to your usual self.
