GP Focus with Dr Arun Thimmiah
Date posted: 24th June 2022Our GPs are an important part of Bay Health Care Partners and here our GPs and primary care colleagues have the opportunity to talk about issues and specialties that they are working on or interested in.
This month, Dr Arun Thimmiah, shares advice and support on how to improve your wellbeing in advance of World Wellbeing Week (24 June- 1 July).
Over the past few years we have faced many stresses and strains due to the coronavirus pandemic, work and personal pressures. Although we may not think of our own ‘wellbeing’ as a priority it is really important that we take time to reflect on it and how we are feeling.
What is wellbeing?
Mental wellbeing doesn’t have to have one set meaning. We can use the term to describe how we are feeling or coping with day-to-day life or what we feel we can achieve at that moment.
Good mental wellbeing doesn’t mean you always have to be ‘happy’ or ‘unaffected by your experiences’ but poor mental wellbeing can make it difficult to cope with daily life.
It’s important to think about what wellbeing means for you and to take that time to experience it. For example it could mean spending time with family or being alone or simply reading a good book.
Tips to improve your wellbeing
There are many things you can do to try to take care of your wellbeing. Mind website has some fantastic tips on how to improve your wellbeing including how to relax and reduce stress, looking after your physical health, finding ways to be creative and getting enough sleep. You can find these resources at Mind’s website here.
The NHS recommends that there are five steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing which can help you to feel more positive and get the best out of
life. The five steps to mental wellbeing are: connecting with other people; being physically active; learning new skills; giving to others and paying attention to the present moment. You can find more advice and support at the NHS website here.
Depression and anxiety resources: