What are some PRACTICAL ways to look after your mental health at work?

Hey @Jlol

When you capitalise 'practical' it comes across that you are saying the 'usual suspects' that others go to are not practical because of work commitments. Most people who practice these also work, have families, busy lives etc. I certainly do and I know other members are the same. But I know if I don't try to fit a walk outside in, it will affect me negatively.

For me to fit that in, I get up an hour early so I can do it. I'm not saying this is practical for you or others. But these things are usually suggested because they actually work. So people will try to fit them into their day/week somehow.

For me, if I was incredibly stressed at work and wanted to do something to help, I would still have to stop working. If I only had 10 minutes or perhaps a lunch break, I would take a walk, sit with my dogs, write in a journal, do some drawing, or put on a meditation app. Maybe others have other ideas. But I wouldn't be so quick to you're 'sick of' the 'usual suspects' when they work so well for many people. Saying you are sick of what others suggest might not be the best way to word a post asking for support.

Sorry if it sounded snarky. Just those things I mentioned I really struggle with (until I win the lottery, work is an immutable, omnipotent presence that leaves me with few choices in life) and, to be frank, I'm kinda sick of them being so fiercely promoted as an effective tool for mental health issues. I'm sure they are, but I can't tell my boss I'm going to hit the gym or meditate for a hour in the middle of work.

I feel like, for most, having access to a time place to do these things are a luxury and people people who are able to do them must be very rich or very lucky.

It feels like the same when I talk to a therapist about work pressures and they say "Have you considered taking some time off work?". To me, that's the same as saying "Have you considered just being rich?".

Hi @Jlol, I understand where you're coming from!

I like to use different smells or scents that I like, to help change my mood, or give me a quick re-frame in my day. Would a few little bottles of your favourite scents or soap bars help?

Maybe you could stash a lavender scented sachet/pillow in your desk drawer and take in the scent when needed? I’ve also heard of lavender scented keyboard wrist rests for when you spend most of your day typing and working at the key board? Just an idea….

All good @Jlol . I do understand where you're coming from. I am by no means rich and loathe when people say money can't buy happiness. Because it would make it a hell of a lot bloody easier! I acknowledge that I'm lucky to work from home and can see my dogs all day long and they provide so much calm. I'm wondering if you can use those stress gadgets at your desk. They have helped me a lot when I need to calm down. https://sensorytools.net/ When I worked in an office, I had a horrid supervisor who made my anxiety sky high. Kinda crazy considering it was a mental health service. My favourite way to stay calm was use playdough at my desk. She would criticise me about it but my team leader was totally on board. I just used to roll it around in my hands and make little shape while I worked.

I'm a big crystal fan. Never used to believe in them until I investigated them and learned to cleanse and charge crystals properly. I could go on and on about them in fact I share my crystal adventures on SANE. I so LOOOVE Morion Quartz!!! It takes away stress, anxiety, uncomfortable feelings, depression, negativity and makes you feel fantastic no matter how difficult life gets @Jlol it also helps with organisational skills so great for work. You don't have to do anything in your schedule, just carry this crystal!!! Seeing is believing my friend. Theres lots of dupes on the market so be careful about selecting an authentic piece. Otherwise you will love what it can do for you and it will change your life forever.

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Hi @Jlol,

I hear how frustrating it can be when the suggestions generally offered to meet a need don't seem practical in your case.

I find it calming to use a fidget toy or to listen to music in the background. Not sure if they're things you might have the opportunity to use or access though.

I hope you find some useful suggestions, and would love to hear if you come across anything that works for you 🙂

I'm just gonna chime in here with no suggestions, just commiserations.

I had the exact same rant to someone recently and as much as those lovely feel good tactics have their place, it's not always, as you say practical.

For me, and this has been something I've had to learn over a number of years, the best thing is to learn to say no. Say no to that extra task. Say no to the extra shift. If you're only doing something because someone else needs you to but deep down you don't want to (and in this scenario we'll say you don't need the money, even if it would be nice) then say no. Most of my stress at work came from resentment because I felt obligated to say yes for none other than the fact I was asked. Heck, I offered my help all the time. I always put my hand up for everything, I always asked if there was anything else. But it was TOO much. There needs to be balance between give and take and I was just give, give, give.

Sorry this turned into vent but that's my tip - balance between give and take!