We’ve spoken before about how hair loss can significantly impact our mental health. And, as someone who has struggled with mental health pretty much my whole life, I can relate.

I’ve experienced depression to the point of not being able to get out of bed or even take a shower. I’ve experienced anxiety to the point where I couldn’t leave the house or make a simple phone call to book a doctor’s appointment.

Mental health is a very real thing and a delicate balance that can be affected by numerous external and internal factors like mental disorders and conditions. Either way, I’ve learned to be fiercely protective of my mental health over the years. And by practising these top tips, I’ve learned to manage and live with mental health issues.

So, whether you’re struggling with your mental health due to hair loss or simply want to improve your mental health, here are our top tips.

Tip #1: Connect with others 

One thing the recent global pandemic taught most of us is how essential our connection with others can be. Surrounding yourself with people who truly care about you and connecting with them regularly is essential to our mental wellbeing.

Connecting with those we’re closest to, even if it’s just via a quick text message, helps us build a sense of belonging and self-worth, allows us to share our experiences with our support system, and provides emotional support when things get difficult.

When you’re feeling blue, reaching out to others is hard as you may feel like you don’t want to burden them with your problems. This is the best time to connect with the important people in your life.

Tip #2: Get a little movement in your day 

Depression can leave you feeling physically exhausted and like the last thing you want to do is be active. Anxiety can make you feel like facing people you might meet while taking a walk would be terrifying. I get it.

However, the benefits that something as simple as a walk around the block will have on your mood are endless. Getting movement into your day reduces anxiety and depression and improves your self-esteem and cognitive function. Movement also releases mood-boosting hormones like endorphins that can make you feel significantly better.

Tip #3: Give journalling a try 

We’ve also spoken before about how powerful putting pen to paper can be when you’re struggling to cope mentally.

Journalling is a safe space for you to express your emotions and worries without having anyone judge you. Sometimes, something as simple as writing out how you’re feeling can provide a sense of release.

You can also use your journal to track your mood and your mental health symptoms from one day to the next. This can help you identify triggers and is helpful to any healthcare professional you see about your mental health.

Tip #4: Go for one therapy appointment 

The thought of therapy can be scary. The last thing many of us want to face when we're struggling mentally is the idea of leaving the house and speaking to a total stranger about how we’re feeling.

But one thing I’ve learned through my journey with mental health is how much therapy actually helps. By speaking to an objective person about your problems, you can gain perspective that you wouldn’t gain anywhere else.

Therapists also help to equip you with knowledge, healthy coping mechanisms, and strategies to better manage your mental health.

Our advice is to try therapy once. Book an appointment and go for one session. If you absolutely hate it, you never have to go back. If you enjoy it, you can make another appointment.

Tip #5: Prioritise self-care 

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated, and it doesn’t have to take hours. You can do plenty of little things each day to make yourself feel good.

Self-care can help you to manage and even alleviate symptoms of mental health issues. It’s also a great way to build confidence and show yourself the love you so deserve.

Mental health resources 

It’s important to know that you are not alone and that there is help out there. Here are some resources you can use to get help with your mental health struggles.

UK 

• Samaritans
• Mind Infoline
• Rethink Mental Illness Advice Line

Europe 

• European Federation of Associations of Families of People with Mental Illness
• WHO Europe

USA 

• Depression Alliance
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America