Look after your mental health

Mental Health Awareness Week is from 15 to 21 May this year, and has a theme of ‘anxiety’. This theme was chosen with the intention to start a nationwide conversation about anxiety and to encourage people to share their own experience of it.

Anxiety is an emotion that most people will experience at some point in their lives. It’s a natural response to unknown and uncertain situations like a diagnosis of lymphoma. But there are lots of reasons why we get this feeling. For example, the current cost-of-living crisis might increase feelings of anxiety. If you’d like support for this, Mind are focusing specifically on the cost-of-living crisis this Mental Health Awareness week. 

How can I manage my anxiety?

Anxiety can get out of control and affect daily life, but there are things we can do to manage this feeling.

• Focus on your breathing. Concentrating on how your body feels as you breathe in and out can help you to control the thought that is worrying you. We have information about breathing techniques you might find helpful.
• Do some physical exercise. Moving your body is a good way to deal with difficult emotions like anxiety. It can be gentle movements like yoga or a walk, or higher impact activities like a jog.
• Talk to people around you. Anxiety can feel lonely and connecting with friends, family or colleagues can help a lot. Saying what’s worrying you out loud can take away the power your thoughts have over you.

You might find our wellbeing resources useful. You can also read about more tips and things you can do to manage your anxiety on the Mental Health Foundation website.

How can I get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week?

Visit the Mental Health Foundation website to find resources, a social media guide, blogs, videos and more content throughout the week. If you use social media throughout the campaign, use the hashtags #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and #ToHelpMyAnxiety to get involved.