How to manage and boost your mental well-being
Mental health challenges have existed long before Covid-19 but have indeed intensified during lockdown. As the nation moves into a post-pandemic era, South Africans are finding ways to rally around this major confront, mental health.
In partnership with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Nedbank aims to help raise awareness about mental health issues in South Africa and advocate for better ways to manage your mental well-being.
- Find a routine
While it is impossible to determine every minute of your day, having a routine can improve your relationships, physical health, productivity and focus and reduce stress.According to studies, finding a routine gives positive structure to your day, enabling you to find a balance and more time for the things you value and enjoy. Routines signal changes at certain times of the day and prompt different activities or tasks that need to be achieved, which could be as simple as eating, sleeping, getting sunlight, or exercising.
- Keep active
People who exercise regularly have better mental health. Keeping active has a positive impact on your body and mind – it boosts your mood, concentration, and alertness, as well as your cardiovascular and overall physical health. It is recommended to get 2,5 to 5 hours of moderate physical activity per week.
- Limit your screentime
People often find themselves picking up their phone to check a message or search for something and land up getting lost down a virtual rabbit hole. Limiting your screen time allows for more time to make social connections with family or friends and to achieve your weekly activity goals. When being active online, specifically on social media, remember that it is also okay to mute or unfollow pages that affect your well-being negatively.
- Get the support you need
SADAG is the continent’s most significant mental health support and advocacy group. They offer free telephonic consultations with expert counsellors and psychologists as and when you need them. If you or your loved ones are battling with mental health challenges, there is hope. Visit sadag.org or call 0800 567 567 in case of an emergency.
Nedbank Runified in partnership with the SADAG, challenges South Africans around the country to run and create support groups to encourage better mental well-being. To find out how you can join Nedbank Runified in your city, join the Nedbank Running Club on Strava or look for #NedbankRunified on social media.
The Nedbank Running Club is more than a club and welcomes runners of all fitness levels to unify through running in support of better mental health, and to take the first steps toward a happier, healthier South Africa.
