Prioritising your mental health is important whatever your situation, but when you are living with a disability, it’s essential. Post pandemic, many people may be feeling heightened levels of anxiety - the fear of coronavirus and the consequent isolation has meant our mental health has taken a knock. That’s why for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (10^th – 16^th May), Revitalise, known as the people who provide respite care breaks for disabled people and their carers, would like to share with our readers some of the best ways disabled people can look after their mental health.

Keep Active

Exercise is great for the mind, getting yourself moving triggers an endorphin rush to the brain that is almost guaranteed to make you feel happier. We’re not suggesting you run a marathon around your living room, but stretching in the garden or heading outside for some fresh air will do wonders.

Stay Social

As the rest of the world opens back up post-lockdown, many vulnerable people are continuing to isolate. Whilst you might not be able to see friends and family in person, one good thing about 2021 is technology means you can still see them virtually. Make sure to schedule plenty of Zoom catch-ups or what about a game of virtual Scrabble with a friend?

Get Creative

Whether it’s reading, writing, playing music, painting or dancing, always celebrate your creativity! Perhaps you’ve always wanted to learn a new skill, or maybe there’s an old passion you’ve let slip – now is the time to focus on it. The arts industry has really suffered over the course of the pandemic, but we’re sure it will bounce back bigger and better than ever.

Take a Break 

This might be easier said than done, especially if you have young children or are a family carer but taking some time to rest and refresh is so important – not only for your sake, but for the sake of your loved ones. A hot bath and 20 minutes to yourself will do wonders, and a good book is a great way of escaping reality for half an hour or so too!

Make Friends

 If you’re feeling the strain, why not take a well-deserved break with Revitalise and let us help ease the pressure. Our staff and fellow guests are a fantastic and friendly bunch, and by holidaying with us you’ll become part of a community of likeminded people who make you feel at home and able to be completely yourself. Many of our guests return time and time again to reunite with old friends (be that fellow guests, team members or volunteers) and always have fun making new ones along the way too.

Revitalise Sandpipers in Southport provide fantastic, accessible holidays for disabled people and their carers, with 24-hour on-call nurse-led care. We are offering discounted rates until the 28^th June and can provide accessible transport across the country. So, anyone who feels they could benefit from our support, need only ask.

Find out more on the Revitalise website - www.revitalise.org.uk

Where Next?

Read more: My Mental Health: How AccessAble gave me options

Read more: It’s Time to Talk about Mental Health and Disability