Maintaining Wellbeing

Wellbeing is more than simply the absence of illness. It is about looking after your physical, emotional, psychological and social health so that you are able to cope with life's challenges, maintain meaningful relationships and enjoy a good quality of life.

Whether you are living with a mental health condition, are neurodivergent, have a long-term physical health condition or are simply looking to improve your overall wellbeing, there are many practical steps that can help you maintain both your physical and psychological health.

Looking after yourself does not mean you will never experience difficult days. Instead, it involves developing healthy habits, recognising when your wellbeing is beginning to decline and taking action early to prevent problems from becoming more significant.

Looking after your physical wellbeing

Physical health and mental health are closely connected. When one is affected, the other often is too.

Looking after your physical wellbeing may include:

• Getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular sleep routine.

• Eating a balanced and nutritious diet.

• Drinking enough water throughout the day.

• Taking prescribed medication as recommended.

• Attending routine health appointments and screenings.

• Remaining physically active within your own abilities.

• Spending time outdoors and getting natural daylight.

• Managing long-term health conditions effectively.

• Reducing smoking, alcohol or substance use where appropriate.

Even small improvements to your physical health can positively influence mood, energy levels, concentration and resilience.

Looking after your psychological wellbeing

Psychological wellbeing involves looking after your thoughts, emotions and ability to cope with everyday life.

This may include:

• Recognising when you are becoming overwhelmed.

• Developing healthy coping strategies.

• Managing stress before it builds up.

• Making time for rest and recovery.

• Practising self compassion rather than self criticism.

• Setting realistic expectations for yourself.

• Accepting that everyone has difficult days.

• Seeking support when you need it.

Good psychological wellbeing does not mean feeling happy all the time. It means having the tools and support to manage life's ups and downs.

Build routines that work for you

Many people benefit from having structure in their day.

Simple routines can help reduce stress, improve organisation and make everyday tasks feel more manageable.

Your routine might include:

• Waking up at a consistent time.

• Planning meals.

• Taking regular breaks.

• Scheduling enjoyable activities.

• Allowing time to unwind before bed.

For neurodivergent people, routines may also reduce uncertainty and improve emotional regulation. However, routines should remain flexible enough to adapt when circumstances change.

Stay connected

Positive relationships are an important part of wellbeing.

Maintaining contact with family, friends, colleagues or community groups can provide emotional support, reduce loneliness and help you feel connected to others.

If social situations are difficult, remember that meaningful connection looks different for everyone. A small number of supportive relationships is often more beneficial than having many acquaintances.

Make time for things you enjoy

Wellbeing is not only about managing difficulties. It is also about making space for the activities that bring enjoyment, relaxation and purpose.

This could include:

• Reading.

• Gardening.

• Music.

• Art.

• Walking.

• Spending time in nature.

• Gaming.

• Learning a new skill.

• Volunteering.

• Spending time with pets.

Regularly engaging in enjoyable activities can improve mood, reduce stress and increase resilience.

Recognise your limits

Everyone has physical and emotional limits.

Trying to push through exhaustion, pain or overwhelming stress often leads to burnout or a decline in wellbeing.

Learning to pace yourself, say no when necessary and allow yourself time to recover is an important part of maintaining long-term health.

Know your early warning signs

Many people notice changes before their wellbeing significantly declines.

These might include:

• Poor sleep.

• Increased anxiety.

• Feeling low in mood.

• Becoming withdrawn.

• Irritability.

• Changes in appetite.

• Difficulty concentrating.

• Feeling constantly overwhelmed.

Recognising these signs early gives you the opportunity to make changes or seek support before problems become more severe.

Ask for help when you need it

Seeking help is a sign of self awareness, not weakness.

If your wellbeing is beginning to affect your daily life, work, education or relationships, speaking to your GP or another healthcare professional can help you access the right support.

Many people also benefit from counselling, psychological therapy, peer support groups or community organisations.

You do not need to wait until you are in crisis before asking for help.

Be kind to yourself

Many people place unrealistic expectations on themselves.

It is important to remember that everyone experiences setbacks, periods of stress and difficult emotions. Looking after your wellbeing is an ongoing process rather than something you achieve once and never need to think about again.

Small, consistent changes are often more effective than trying to change everything at once.

Final thoughts

Maintaining wellbeing is about caring for your whole self. Looking after your physical health, psychological wellbeing, relationships and daily routines can all contribute to better overall health and quality of life.

There is no single approach that works for everyone. The most effective self care is the approach that fits your individual circumstances, respects your strengths and challenges, and supports you to live a healthy, meaningful and fulfilling life.