There’s a common misconception that mental health only pertains to those who deal with a mental illness. However, we all have mental health, just as we all have physical health that we need to take care of.

The words we use to talk about mental health can have a significant impact on the way we perceive and understand these issues. For a long time, mental health was shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, with words like "crazy," and "insane," used to describe people with mental health conditions. But as our understanding of mental health has evolved, so too has our language.

When we feel stressed and burnt out, taking a holiday is usually on the list of what to do next. Many of us expect that it will be enough to cure exhaustion, stress, and negative feelings associated with burnout. Yet, as we get nearer the end of the vacation we start to feel the same stress that we’ve been trying to remedy.

As the year comes to a close, we may find ourselves scrambling to make the most of the last days of 2022. In this fast-paced world, we often feel the need to hit all our goals and keep moving forward. This can lead us to a state of “not enough”. What if we slowed down instead, by looking back on our year through the lens of gratitude?

As humans, we experience an immense spectrum of emotions and feelings. Every one of us wants a peaceful, growing, strong, and healthy relationship with the people around us, be it our family, friends, or partners. We all try to achieve this, but unfortunately, we sometimes fall into relationships that are toxic and manipulative.

Whether it’s recovering from a hectic work week or uplifting our spirits, we all need a little self-care from time to time. The World Health Organisation defines self-care as caring for one’s physical, mental and social health. This involves engaging in activities or visiting places that are enjoyable and restore our energies. Here are some recommendations from our volunteer, Rachel.