A GP at Nuffield Health Newcastle Hospital is urging people to prioritise their mental wellbeing and to seek help via their GP surgery, after new figures predict a ris
The Centre for Mental Health has predicted
that up to 10 million people, almost a fifth
of England’s population, will need new or
additional mental health support as a direct
result of the pandemic. The shocking statistic
re-emphasises the need for better mental
health awareness and discussion, beyond the
official awareness days.
As we go through what is left of this year and into
the next, many will be feeling the mental strain of
the pandemic, whilst others may be experiencing
the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder
(SAD).
SAD is often linked to reduced exposure to
sunlight during shorter winter days and can
present itself in similar ways to depression, with
symptoms including persistent low mood and
interrupted sleep.
Dr Pip Singh, GP at Nuffield Health Newcastle, is
urging people to seek help if they’re experiencing
persistent low mood and other symptoms
associated with mental ill health, as the right
diagnosis can determine the most effective
treatment options.
There are several ways people can look after their
mental wellbeing on a day-to-day basis, Dr Singh
shares his top tips below.
Maintain a good diet
Although junk food may appear appealing at the
time, the long term implications of persistent
over indulgence can lead to weight gain and
other health-related problems such as type two
diabetes and heart disease.
Do some cardiovascular exercise
This can be from very basic home-based exercises
such as short walks to more intense exercises
such as running, swimming and gym-based
training. Alternatively, there’s a variety of guided
home workouts available online. The goal is to
increase your heart rate, as by doing so the brain
will release endorphins and they can have a
positive impact on your mood.
Find time for your hobbies and interests
If your hobbies have been temporarily suspended
due to the pandemic, could you look for a new
hobby or interest? Is there something you have
always wanted to do, that you may now have
time for?
Maintain alcohol within sensible limits
The government guidelines suggest 14 units
of alcohol a week for both men and women.
One unit is the equivalent to a small glass
of wine, one measured shot of spirit or a
half pint of normal strength beer. Although
alcohol will give you an immediate sensation
of relaxation, long term overuse can lead to
lowered mood and health problems such as
heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.