Getting yourself back into a routine after Christmas and New Year can be extremely difficult. January is known for being a month that can test your mental health and when working in healthcare, your focus is always on caring for others and making sure they are okay. However, it is important to make sure you are looking after your own mental health and well-being during this time.
To help you throughout this month, read below our list of tips of how to look after your well-being:
Reach out to someone if you are struggling
If you feel yourself struggling during this time, use your support systems and reach out to someone that is able to listen to you. Whether that be a manager, a close friend or your recruitment consultant, opening up to another person about any issues or feelings you have can be extremely beneficial for your own mental health.
Exercise
It can be difficult to get yourself into a good exercise routine in January with the cold mornings and darker nights. However, even something small like going for a walk or even doing a quick 20 minute workout at home can really help with your mental health and wellbeing. It’s important to find an exercise plan that you enjoy and can work around your work schedule, as this can really help with managing stress levels.
Healthy Eating and Keeping Hydrated
It is important to make sure you keep yourself hydrated with water during your shifts as this can really help with making you feel energized. Also, it can be hard to make sure you are making the time to eat properly when you have a busy day at work. But it is important to make sure you are making this a priority as a healthy and balanced meal will refuel your body and help you throughout your working day.
A good sleep routine
Sleep is vital when it comes to your mental health and wellbeing, however, a lot of people struggle to put in place a good sleep routine, especially after the busy Christmas and New Year break. Find out what works best for you and work out a sleep routine around your lifestyle. Limiting caffeine intake and electric devices before bed can also have a positive impact on your sleep, and can make sure you feel recharged, refreshed, and active when you wake up.
A positive balance (work-life balance)
Having a balance between work and your personal life is something that a lot of us struggle with from time to time. However, it really can have a good impact on your mental health when you find a healthy balance between the two. Make sure when you have finished work that you are switching off and putting your energy into hobbies that you love. Whether that is spending time with friends and family or doing creative tasks like drawing and painting, these hobbies can have a positive impact on your mood.
Organise your time
2023 is a fresh start and is the perfect time to get yourself organised, especially with work. Using things such as diaries, planners or to-do lists can really help your productivity and can ease that overwhelming feeling if you feel you have too much on your plate.
