Mental Health & Wellbeing – December 2024
Friday, 6 December 2024
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Welcome to this month's "Mental Health and Wellbeing" section of the OIU newsletter. This month's section is going to be much shorter than previous editions. Outlined below is a simple note that was sent to me a few months back about happy chemical triggers. Much of this is common sense but interesting reading all the same. On a more serious note, Christmas time can be a very stressful time that can trigger relapses of mental health. Lots of drinking, eating poorly, late nights, less exercise, catching up with family and expectations to be "on" can prove challenging. If you are feeling overwhelmed and struggling, please visit your GP, like you might with a bad cold, or some other health condition that concerns you. If need be, take a friend or family member with you. Have a great and safe Christmas. How to Hack your Happy Hormones A couple months back I included a link to a Simon Sinek Podcast where he discussed a number of our body's chemicals that impact our mood. This should not be seen as a cure or replace seeing your doctor, but it might provide some guidance for good habits that might improve your mood and disposition. Dopamine – The Rewarding Chemical Dopamine is often referred to as the "motivator hormone". It drives our brain's reward system, providing a sense of pleasure and accomplishment. Dopamine is released whenever we achieve something, no matter how small, making it a critical hormone for motivation and focus. • Listen to Upbeat Music • Prioritise Quality Sleep • Savour Sweet Treats • Complete Small Goals Serotonin - The Mood Stabiliser Serotonin is essential for emotional well-being. It stabilises your mood, fosters feelings of calm and happiness, and even supports learning and memory. A lack of serotonin can lead to feelings of sadness, irritability, and anxiety, making it crucial for maintaining mental health. • Take a Walk Outdoors • Soak in Some Sunshine • Practice Meditation and Mindfulness • Engage in Cardio Exercise Oxytocin – The Love Hormone Oxytocin, commonly known as "the love hormone," plays a vital role in fostering trust, connection, and life satisfaction. Research shows that oxytocin has a more significant impact on women's physiology and happiness compared to men's. This hormone is closely associated with affectionate touch and nurturing close relationships. This hormone also provides a multiple hit, by stimulating serotonin and dopamine, while lowering anxiety. • Hug Someone • Cook a Meal for Someone You Care About • Engage in Meaningful Conversations • Spend Time with Pets Endorphin – The Pain Killer Endorphins, produced by the central nervous system, act as the body's natural painkillers. They are released in response to physical pain or stress, but also during activities such as eating, exercising, or engaging in intimate moments. This release creates a brief sense of euphoria that helps mask discomfort. Athletes often describe the "endorphin high," a wave of exhilaration experienced when pushing their bodies through intense effort or pain. • Watch a Comedy • Burn Essential Oils • Exercise Regularly • Enjoy Sweet Treats in Moderation |