Mental Health and Well-Being Blog: August 2020

August 3, 2020

Did you know that one of the best ways to be kind to yourself is to be kind to others?
Studies have shown that when you do a kind deed, it actually delivers a bigger happiness boost to you than the person you’re helping.
You can unlock this happiness boost with either an act of giving, like volunteering or helping a neighbour, or an act of gratitude, like sending a thank you note or just writing down something you are grateful for each day.
Why?
Research tells us that performing an act of kindness triggers the release of a chemical called Oxycontin. This stimulates the area of your brain associated with social connection and trust, which makes you feel good. Showing gratitude can improve your self-esteem, enhance empathy, reduce aggression and even help you sleep better. Acts of gratitude create strong positive emotions, and practising them regularly will also help build your mental resilience.

Find daily activities that you can do to improve your mental well-being.

• Do something nice for someone
• Share your gratitude
• Ask “how are you?”
• Think before you speak
• Donate blood (https://www.donateblood.com.au/)
• Offer support
• Talk to a stranger
• Leave positive notes
• Try complimenting someone
• Become a mentor
• Make a donation

Exercise of the Month: 10,000 Steps

Join the Billion Steps Challenge; it encourages Australian’s to increase their physical activity. This program is run by the team at CQUniversity Australia since 2001, who provide a free program to help you challenge yourself, friends and workmates to move more every day. https://www.10000steps.org.au/

Mental Health Awareness Campaigns – August : Click on the images for more information.