Working as a trainer in the Mental Health field, one of the things I like to focus on is strategies for managing stress and burnout. As I’m sure you can imagine, and as some of you may know yourselves, working in a setting such as this can have a significant impact on workers’ mental health, and this became particularly apparent throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. I soon began to realise I was not following these strategies myself, so I looked to reading and Bookstagram to help me practice what I preach:
1. Take a break/ escape.
The best books, in my opinion, are those that can transport you to an entirely different world. I’m thinking, the much hyped ‘ACOTAR’ series, or the classic ‘The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe’. When reality is feeling a bit dark and gloomy, books can be a brilliant escape, and help you to stop overthinking about the problems in your own lives you may be facing.
2. Seek social support.
I’ve found that the amount of social support and genuine friendships that can be gained from Bookstagram to be incredible! From reading groups to book clubs, Bookstagram really is a community filled with like-minded people, providing you with a sense of belonging. I’ve virtually met so many individuals who strive to build your confidence and self-esteem, who want nothing more than for you to achieve great things.
3. Use physical exercise.
As, it seems to be, is the case every year, in January 2022, I resolved this year I would try to be healthier. This included engaging in dreaded exercise. One of the many benefits of exercise, as well as supporting our physical health, is that when we exercise, we are filled with endorphins that make us feel great. However, I found that my motivation to get started with this was lacking. Fortunately, I was recently welcomed into the world of Audiobooks. The idea of going on a long walk doesn’t seem so tortuous if it means I can listen to some great books while I do it – problem solved!
4. Learn new skills.
Why does learning new skills promote our mental health, you ask? When we have completed these, we get another self-esteem boost, making us feel good about ourselves. When I first joined Bookstagram, I was in awe of others’ posts: professional-looking photos; elaborate and inspiring book reviews; fantastic templates for buddy reads, monthly reads, book buying ban trackers; you name it! However, I was delighted to learn that these nifty tricks are the worst kept secret, and was able to start learning to do these things for myself. Granted, I’m still learning (aren’t we all?), but I feel like I’ve learned so much already!
Jemma Banksyyy_books
Comments