Mental Health For Dads: Time To Speak Up
If you are struggling with anxiety because the coronavirus has made you take a step back, slow down, and reflect on life a little more, you might be keen to get yourself out of the rut. It can be challenging to feel more positive each day as we are bombarded with even more Covid stats. As dads, we want to be seen as the alpha, the guy who is the rock, and who can support others. But, who is going to support you when you are feeling low? It’s time to think about your own mental health and put a strategy in place to help you overcome your fears and anxieties. Read on to find out how.
Do Something For You
Yes, you might be worried about the health of your kids and you might be eager to make sure that the home school set up you have is great for your little cherubs, but these stresses can add to your anxiety. Spending more time with your family because you are in a lockdown situation might mean more quality time together but it can also be stifling. This is why you need to focus on yourself a little more than you usually would. Think about going for a drive in your beloved set of wheels. Do some research on the automotive industry and work out if you want to trade up and get a new motor to enjoy. Alternatively, find yourself a new hobby. Perhaps you want to start jogging or maybe you want to learn a new language. Ge yourself online or head outdoors to partake in thirty minutes a day of you time.
Yoga
While you may assume that yoga belongs in the world of hippies, dreadlocked individuals and incense sticks, you’d be wrong. Nowadays, doctors are prescribing courses of yoga and mindfulness in the first instance instead of medication to help people suffering with anxiety, depression or stress. Ensure that you give yoga a go in an effort to clear your mind and enjoy a more peaceful existence. Yoga will strengthen your core and help you to channel your thoughts down more positive channels by moving your body into a range of different postures as well as giving some breathing exercises a go. You will find yourself becoming more supple and enjoying a more mindful way of thinking.
Get Outside
Being copped up all day is not healthy so ensure that you get outdoors in a Covid safe way every day. You can wear a face covering and stay two meters away from people while taking a stroll to the park or venturing on a cycle ride. Being outdoors and soaking up the natural rays of the sun allows your circadian rhythm to be more regulated. You can enjoy a better night’s sleep as well as the positivity inducing effects of dopamine production. Being surrounded by nature is proven to boost your mood and make you feel better about the here and now.
While the world may seem a chaotic place at the moment, it’s important that you can talk about any mental health difficulties you may be having. This sets a great example for your kids and shows that you are willing to improve your mental well being.
