Advice, guides & articles

I have to preface this list with a trigger warning, because if you are not mentally and emotionally in the right place to get very sad, very soon, then maybe you should come back when you are feeling more prepared. Sometimes a good cry is actually just what you need in order to release pent up feelings that you cannot otherwise seem to let out. If that’s you, then you’re in the right place! I’ve found songs from a range of different genres, including pop, rock, and hip hop, but what they all have in common is that the videos have a story to tell about grief and loss

100 Miles in March for Mind takes place throughout the month of March, and challenges people to walk, run or wheel 100 miles in March to raise money and awareness for better mental health. Mind is a mental health charity, aiming to make mental health an everyday priority across England and Wales. They offer help and support to those who need it, providing advice and information, and knowledge of local mental health services. Anyone can take part in this challenge, no matter your level of activity. Walking, jogging and cycling can all help you to get to the 100 mile mark, and it’s up to you how you get there. Pace yourself by doing 3 miles every day, or go on long walks or bike rides over the weekend to make up the miles. You can find out how to register by visiting the site, below: mind.org.uk/get-involved/donate-or-fundraise/take-on-an-active-challenge/100-miles-in-march-2024 Once registered, you’ll be sent a free Mind t-shirt and step tracker, and can set up a fundraising page. The page will automatically set a target for £150, but this can be increased or decreased as you see fit. You can choose to join the Facebook group, allowing you to connect with others taking the challenge. This could be a useful tool for motivation, as you see how others are getting on with their goal. You can even take part as a team with friends or family members. This is great for motivation, and allows you to set up fun activities together to get the miles in.

The workplace is not only a space for professional growth but also a crucial environment that significantly impacts an individual’s mental wellbeing. A positive work environment that prioritises mental wellbeing contributes to increased employee engagement, job satisfaction, and overall productivity. Neglecting mental health can lead to burnout, absences from work, decreased productivity, and a decline in overall team morale. Below are some strategies for cultivating a positive workplace environment that uplifts employees, and also actionable steps individuals can take to prioritise their mental wellbeing within the professional setting. Open Communication Open dialogue about mental health should be encouraged in the workplace. Ensure that employees know they can seek support without fear of judgement, and create avenues for employees to express their concerns, such as one-on-one meetings, team discussions or anonymous surveys. Employees should always communicate their needs and concerns to their supervisor or colleagues. If you are feeling overwhelmed, whether with workload or any other issue, discuss this with your manager. Always seek support where needed. Training and Development Mental health awareness training should be provided to employees and management. It is important to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognise signs of mental health struggles, fostering empathy and understanding in the workplace. Employees should consider advocating for change if you believe your workplace culture negatively impacts mental health. You could suggest mental health initiatives, wellness programs, or discussions about fostering a more supportive environment. Flexible Work Policies Workplaces should recognise and accommodate diverse needs by implementing flexible work policies. This includes flexible working hours, remote work options, and understanding the importance of work-life balance. These measures can help to alleviate stress and support employees in managing their mental health effectively. Individuals should work to understand themselves and their limits. If you feel you need to make a change, such as working hours, working from home, or any other reasonable accommodation, ask for support. Mental Health Resources Access to mental health resources such as counselling services, employee assistance programs, or workshops focused on stress management should be available to all employees. Employees should familiarise themselves with any mental health resources, such as the above, available in their workplace. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. Work/Life Balance A work/life balance should be promoted by the workplace. Ensure to set realistic expectations and boundaries, and discourage excessive overtime. Work to foster an environment where employees feel comfortable taking breaks where needed. Employees need to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Define specific work hours, take regular breaks, and resist the temptation to work when you’re not supposed to. Prioritising mental health in the workplace helps to cultivate a thriving, innovative, and resilient workforce. By fostering a supportive culture, providing resources, and recognising the significance of mental wellbeing, organisations can create environments where employees not only survive but truly thrive. This then lays the foundation for long-term success and contributes to a healthier, more compassionate workplace. Thank you for reading.

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences any of us will face in life. In moments of grief, finding the right words to express our feelings can be daunting. Whether you're attending, or speaking at, a funeral or offering condolences to someone who has lost a loved one, knowing what to say can be a source of anxiety. In this blog, we'll explore some common phrases and sentiments people express at funerals, aiming to provide comfort and guidance during this difficult time.

We’re pretty familiar with our own physical health, and a lot of us are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of looking after our own mental health, but have you ever thought about your emotional health? With Emotional Health Week coming up soon, now is as good a time as any to start thinking about it!

The beginning of February marks the beginning of LGBT+ History Month, a month of celebration, reflection and education. Taking place annually, it is a time to honour the LGBT+ community, acknowledging the struggles, triumphs and contributions that have shaped the world we live in today. Each year has a different theme to help showcase a different aspect of the LGBT+ community and its history. This year’s theme is Medicine, celebrating the community’s contribution to the field of Medicine and Healthcare, both historically and today.

In a world that often glorifies constant connection and social engagement, the concept of solitude is frequently overlooked. However, embracing solitude can be a powerful and transformative experience that contributes significantly to personal growth and mental well-being. Here we will explore the importance of alone time and how we can incorporate it into our daily lives.

When forced to think about death and dying, we usually consider the emotional and mental costs that it will bestow upon ourselves and our loved ones. However, if we take a more pragmatic approach, then we can start to consider the ‘cost of dying’ as relating to the actual monetary cost of a person’s send off.

Time to Talk Day is an annual awareness day, taking place this year on 1st February, that encourages people to start a conversation about mental health. Run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in partnership with the Co-op, Time to Talk Day provides an opportunity to break down barriers and dispel the stigma that still exists around mental health.

Focusing on nourishing foods during the winter months can do wonders for both the body and mind. Embracing a wholesome diet not only enhances our mental well-being but also contributes significantly to our physical health. Consider the following strategies to elevate your diet and promote optimal mental and physical well-being: Hydration Staying hydrated is crucial for a healthy body and mind. Drinking plenty of water helps to regulate body temperature, prevent infections, and keep organs functioning properly. Being well hydrated can also help to improve sleep quality, cognitive function and mood. Herbal teas and vegetable soups are great options for the winter months. Incorporate Healthy Fats Not all fats are bad for you. Omega 3 fatty acids found in nuts, seeds, and fatty fish like salmon or sardines can help to improve cognitive function and mood. Avocados and olive oil are also excellent sources of healthy fats that support brain health and overall well-being. Embrace Seasonal Produce Winter offers a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, packed with essential nutrients. Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit are rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system and fight off winter colds. Root vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes are a hearty source of vitamins and fibre. Balance Try to aim for balanced meals, incorporating protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Include plenty of fibre rich foods, and eat a variety of different fruits and vegetables as part of your meals. Everything in Moderation Try to limit sugar and sweet treats as much as you can, as excessive sugar consumption can negatively impact mood and energy levels. You can still enjoy your favourite snacks and treats, but try to limit the amount you are consuming, or swap with healthier alternatives like fresh fruit and dark chocolate. Think Ahead Make a meal plan for each week and try to stick to it. You can also prepare meals ahead, such as batches of soups and stews, and keep a few portions in the freezer so you can enjoy nutritious meals even if you don’t have a lot of time to cook. Eating a healthy diet doesn’t mean you have to cut out all of your favourite foods. Moderation is the key, and focusing on a nutrient rich diet, staying hydrated and eating mindfully can help to support your well-being and maintain a brighter mind throughout the winter season. Thank you for reading. Check out our previous blogs here. Follow funeral-notices.co.uk on social media to see when new articles are published: Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn