Small steps to a fit mind
When it comes to our mental wellbeing, it’s often the small things that can make a big difference. We’ve highlighted some of the top ways we can strengthen our own mental fitness as well as some tips on how we can have a kōrero with our mates and whānau.
Having a kōrero
Ask
- Use simple open questions. “How are you doing?” or “what’s been going on lately?”.
- Be specific about what you’ve noticed. “You seem quieter than usual, is everything ok?”.
- Ask again. If someone says they’re OK but your gut tells you differently, ask again later.
Listen
- Show you’re listening. Repeat back what they’re saying in your own words.
- Acknowledge how they feel. “That sounds really hard” or “That doesn’t sound easy, its good we can chat about it”.
- Be patient. If they need time to think, sit with them and let them know they can take their time.
Encourage
- Encourage action by asking. “What’s something that has helped in the past?” or “How could I support you?”.
- Support them to find help. If they’ve been feeling that way for 2 weeks or more, it might be time to speak to an expert. Let them know you can do that together.
Check back-in
- Lock in time to catch up again. Make sure you take responsibility to lock-in when you’ll catch up next, be specific about a day and time.
- Set your own reminder. Before you catch up next, set a reminder on your phone to text and check in on how they are.
A good night’s sleep allows our mind to rest and helps us be better prepared to face the day’s challenges.
Being able to scan for the positives is a skill that we can actually train our brains to be better at and is great for our mental wellbeing.
Practicing mindfulness is a great way for us to create space and take a minute to relax. Even just 5 minutes can help us refocus and think more clearly.
Finding time to relax can be a challenge when we have a lot on our plate but taking some time out is super important to our mental wellbeing.
Changes, no matter how small, can be an indication something is up. If your gut feel is they seem a bit off, it’s worth a check in.
You’d always ask a mate how they were feeling if they were injured – asking how they’re feeling if they seem stressed or down is exactly the same.
Checking in regularly with your mates lets them know you’re there if they need you, and helps keep the conversation in play.