Today, 10 October, is World Mental Health awareness day. I really wasn’t aware of that until my Social Media feed highlighted it mid-morning.

So let me be honest. Over the past 5 years, dealing with a chronic illness has led to depression, anxiety and, at the worst times, suicidal thoughts. All have been a part of my life though, like my energy levels, they vary in intensity from day to day.

So today, on Mental Health Awareness Day, I would like to express gratitude:

* to family and friends who have been there through thick and thin.

* to a church family who have brought love and encouragement.

* for medical staff and scientists who are working tirelessly to find solutions.

What are my three top tips for survival:

* Rest! Pacing and acceptance are my friends. As one therapist emphasised to me, ’embrace your inner tortoise!’

* Emphasise a weekly rest alongside the daily. People of faith may call this a Sabbath when they take time away from the normal routine. Others just call it the weekend! Whatever works for you. Thus the reason I try to share a Friday slow down message as the weekend is about to start. You often see the hashtag #shabbatshalom – resting one day in seven.

* Enjoy nature. Often when I’m feeling down the best thing I can do is step out the door. #naturetherapy is an important and essential part of my life. That is why you get so many nature pics from me. Today’s photo below is of our garden birds, photographed through our windows. They bring me such joy. Nature and rest go hand-in-hand for me.

Wishing you a positive weekend – from someone who struggles but tries to live a life of encouragement.

#naturetherapy#shabbatshalom#family#lovingmygarden#longcovidawareness#mentalhealthawareness