PART II Part I can be found here Dry January - The Transformative Benefits of Reducing Alcohol - My Journey Following up on my previous blog about the transformative benefits of reducing alcohol, I want to delve into an often-overlooked aspect of this journey: the stigma associated with having an alcohol or drug problem, and also the stigma attached to being teetotal or opting for low alcohol intake. These societal pressures can make recovery and sobriety challenging, but it's time we address them head-on. I have faced this struggle myself, enduring everything from 'friendly' jibes to outright judgement from people who seem to think there must be something wrong with me for admitting that alcohol had control over my life. It can be disheartening when people don’t know how to respond when you say, "I don’t drink anymore!" Some might react with awkward silence, while others feel compelled to crack a joke or belittle you, possibly out of their own insecurities or fears.
Prioritising Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace
Why is it so important to have different kinds of people and make everyone feel included at work? In this blog, we’ll talk about why having different kinds of people at work is important and how it helps companies do well. In today’s world, having different kinds of people at work isn’t just a trendy thing—it’s a big part of what makes companies successful. It helps people come up with new ideas and makes work a better place to be. In this blog, I will talk about why this is so important.
This is a great video on the Ask Twice initiative. https://youtu.be/nOkH2jGK4p0?si=8L_RpzKqwkP0A6HG
We all know keeping fit is good for our physical health, but did you know it is also extremely good for our Mental Health too?! Personally for me I have been really enjoying cycling during the lock down and have recently been going out with a good friend (social distancing involved 🙃 ), which has helped us both. I'm not particularly fit at the age of 53 and I am starting to fray at the edges a little bit, but the cycling has helped me not only with coping with the Covid19 lock -down, but also with everyday anxiety struggles with my mental health. Not only that, I have been getting fitter.... extending the range each time, starting at just 8 miles….. or should I say 13k cos it sounds more! 🤪 I am really experiencing the positive benefits not only physically but also mentally. So how about YOU? Maybe consider taking up some exercise during this lock-down and build it into your natural rhythm of life. It doesn't have to be cycling; It can be walking, running, dancing, Yoga, keep fit or Gym anything. Graham Foxwell @ Cedar Tree Mental Health & Well-being. www.cedartree-mhw.co.uk
A lived in experience....
Through a number of groups, we work with, friends and family, I know many people are finding this covid19 lifestyle extremely hard. Whether you are shielding at home, furloughed, working full time or part time, one of our ‘keyworkers’ or other it is tough. You could be part of a large family unit or on you own, this covid19 lockdown will affect us all to caring degrees and in many different ways. Some are absolutely hating it and others are seeming to thrive. But one thing is for sure, everyone is affected and has had their daily routine, meaning and purpose disrupted.
This blog has been taken from the talk ‘Dare to Hope’ by Graham Foxwell of Cedar Tree Mental Health and Well-being. It is used in the Cedar Tree Mental Health Awareness course.
