Get Your ‘Five-A-Day’ for Mental Fitness

IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chair Alice Doyle said that mental health difficulties affect society, and not just a small, isolated group. But good mental health is more than simply the absence of problems. It is just as important as good physical health and should be a priority for everyone.

As part of Men’s Health Week, there are five simple steps to help to maintain and improve your wellbeing. Try to build these into your daily life and think of them as your ‘five-a-day’ for mental fitness.

1. CONNECT with the people around you – family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours – and spend time developing relationships.

2. BE ACTIVE and find a physical activity that you enjoy. Go for a walk, run, cycle, do some gardening, wash the car, take the dog out … Exercise makes you feel good.

3. TAKE NOTICE of the world around you, be observant, look for something beautiful or remark on something unusual. Savour and enjoy the moment, be aware of your surroundings and appreciate the place you’re in.

4. KEEP LEARNING and don’t be afraid to try something new. Rediscover an old hobby or signup for a course. Take on a different role, fix a bike, learn to play an instrument, develop a skill that you’ve always wanted to have … Set yourself a challenge and have some fun.

5. GIVE to others. Do something nice for a friend or stranger, thank someone, smile or volunteer your time. Find ways to work together with others on things rather than on your own.

During #MensHealthWeek 2023, take the first small steps towards improving your mental fitness.

You’ll feel more like #ThePictureOfHealth if you do.

For practical help, support, tips and advice, visit: www.yourmentalhealth.ie