Minding ourselves in 2024

Looking after your mental health is challenging at any time. In this coming year, it might seem more difficult against a backdrop of intensifying international conflicts, increasingly severe climate events, along with an Irish society coping with a range of serious challenges. Anna Carroll offers a range of mental help tips including going out election canvassing, leaflet drops, and going to that meeting.

It’s February and we’ve gotten past Blue Monday. It’s now time to think of minding ourselves in 2024. Mental health is not just for January. It is essential to prioritise our wellbeing. Given everything that is going on in the world right now, it’s difficult not to get down. We feel like helpless spectators as ultimately the evils that are occurring in places such as Palestine, Sudan, Yemen, can feel very much out of our control.

It doesn’t help that we’re living in an era of non-stop broadcasting from every source. Not just from our televisions and print media, but social media too. We have the most intensive round the clock coverage of war, violence, and human suffering at the touch of our finger. This has the potential to significantly harm our mental wellbeing. There has to be boundaries and we need to be the ones to set them.

In this age of constant connectivity and information overload, instead of falling into the trap of doom scrolling, (when you binge on news or social media content about negative things) engage in activities that ground you in the present moment, such as breathing exercises, stretches, going for a walk, for a swim, trying out a guided meditation video on YouTube.

While staying informed is important, we know that constant exposure to negative news can take a toll on our mental health. Consider scheduling regular digital detox sessions to disconnect from social media and news updates. You can install apps like AppBlock, Flipd, Freedom or StayFree to limit your time on social media or news sites. 

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Habits and muscle memory often lead us back to social media even when we’ve decided to take a break. A digital detox can refresh your mind and provide a much-needed break from the relentless stream of information. Use this time to engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a book, playing music, being more present with your friends. 

As we head into a busy election year, another activity worth considering is going out on the canvass or maybe a leaflet drop. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded people and foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie. So, consider joining that march, going to that meeting, catching up with other political activists. Trying to make Ireland and the wider world a better place might just help your own peace of mind too!

If you’re working in an office, it’s also another way to get out of the house and get some steps in. Engaging in political activism can be good for mental health, providing you with a sense of purpose, empowerment, and community connection. 

Incorporate positive habits into your daily routine. Maintaining a regular sleep pattern is key. I shut off my phone every night to take away the temptation. I even put an alarm on to remind me it’s time to turn the phone off! Cooking homemade meals can be therapeutic and a great way to unwind. 

Reaching out to others is one of the most powerful things we can do. Isolation can exacerbate our feelings of anxiety and stress and by sharing your thoughts and feelings with others it can make you feel less alone but also strengthen your emotional resilience. Make sure to celebrate small victories along the way and be kind to yourself when faced with setbacks.

If you find yourself struggling to cope with the challenges of the world, seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Organisations like Aware, Pieta House, and Samaritans provide helplines, support groups, instant messaging, and counselling services for those struggling. There’s been an increase in people accessing online counselling from providers such as betterhelp.com, which is a more affordable private option and it also offers more accessibility for those with busy schedules as the sessions are done over zoom. The HSE also provides support and your GP can refer you for more specialised services. 

So, as we start the new year, prioritise your mental wellbeing. Use mindful practices, adopt positive habits, and connect with others. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s a vital investment in your overall happiness and success. So be kind to yourself. 

Anna Carroll is a Digital Media Officer for Sinn Féin.