Mental health tips feature in new guide

A LOCKERBIE health and social care company has produced a free guide on mental health.

Cygnet, which runs the Trinity House and Trinity Lodge services, is urging people to take action and protect their wellbeing in a world of constant news.

And their new guide offers practical steps to help people stay informed while also protecting their mental health. It is focused on the theme “Take Action”, looking at what proactive steps individuals can take to promote good mental health.

Dr Erica De Lange, regional director of psychology at Cygnet Health Care, said: “Many people today feel surrounded by a constant stream of news about conflict, crises and global events. With TV, online news and social media delivering updates within seconds, it can be difficult to switch off.

“While staying informed is important, continuous exposure to upsetting or dramatic headlines can feel overwhelming. For many people, regularly absorbing this type of content can take a toll on emotional wellbeing if boundaries are not in place.

“It’s completely natural to feel concerned when hearing about distressing events. Empathy and awareness are important human responses. But when this becomes part of everyday life, it can create emotional and psychological strain and can lead to ‘headline anxiety’.”

The guide recommends:

Spotting symptoms such as trouble sleeping, difficulty switching off, or feeling drained and anxious.

Setting boundaries for news consumption, taking breaks and maintaining health habits.

Support yourself by talking to someone you trust, considering professional help, reducing exposure and practising self-compassion.

To read it for free go to Cygnet’s website.