Get back to a better place

What's worrying you

Sometimes the stress or anxiety we feel are being caused by something happening in your life – money worries, your job, a bereavement. Getting support for these life challenges might help get you back to a better place.

Ged’s story

After a period of illness and bereavement, Ged found himself drinking more to cope, which led to alcohol dependency. Men often turn to practical activities to manage distress, so drinking more can seem normal when dealing with tough situations. However, this can make things worse in the long run. In his video, Ged emphasizes the importance of opening up and asking for help if alcohol becomes a problem.

Did you know that around 1 in 10 fathers feel sad or worried after their baby is born?  It’s important for dads to talk about their feelings/worries/stresses and get help if they need it. So, if you’re a new dad or been there got the tshirt, remember: it’s okay to ask for support and take care of your mind too.

Life doesn’t always run smoothly

Calm Your Mind aims to give men practical tips to get back to a better place so you can manage your mental health & wellbeing, Where you can hear first-hand from other men who have experienced challenges and overcome them as well as get valuable guidance on the actions you can take to look after yourself as well as specialist support available in Halton.

What we mean when we use the term ‘mental health’?

All of us – men, women and children – have mental health. It’s how we think, feel and act. Mental Health is equally as important as physical health. 

All of us throughout our life will have ups and downs when facing everyday challenges. Sometimes these challenges can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed and even hopeless (see Support Available | Calm your mind)  For many keeping ourselves well by doing things we love and things that bring us joy can help take our mind of our worries and feel more able to cope. Take a look at our What Can You Do page for some tips and suggestions. 

Sean’s Story

Sean’s mental health took a blow when he suffered a serious injury playing sport. Being unable to work or do any of the things he used to had a profound impact on his mental health.

In his video, he tells us how his love of cooking and keeping physically healthy has helped him keep emotionally well as he recovered physically.

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Our local champions have shared what they do to help their mental health.

HEAR FROM OTHERS

 

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For more ideas on what you can do to help yourself, see our what you can do page

 

 

Do something for yourself

Dads

Becoming a father is a big deal, and it’s okay for dads to feel all sorts of emotions before pregnancy, during and after. It can feel like that your primary role is to be there for mum and support her and baby, provide for the family, be happy, upbeat and worry free. This means that dads forget to take care of themselves. Did you know that around 1 in 10 fathers feel sad or worried after their baby is born?  It’s important for dads to talk about their feelings/worries/stresses and get help if they need it. So, if you’re a new dad or been there got the tshirt, remember: it’s okay to ask for support and take care of your mind too. For some ideas on what this could be visit  What can you do? | Calm your mind and check out the video.

Young Fathers

Young fathers defined as under 25. Young dads can get a bad rep and can be looked upon as irresponsible and absent. Out of all the parenting groups Young dads are among the most socially excluded in the UK. They often miss out on the support networks that most parents take for granted and rely on. On top of this young fathers experience greater parenting stresses that older fathers.  Check out the link below for more information.

Father’s Day: a focus on young fathers and mental health | Mental Health Foundation

Dads Hormones

Dads do you know how important you are to your family at this time? Knowledge is power right. Fathers just like mothers release hormones that help them bond with their babies, the more care they do the more hormones they release.

Experienced dads have more of a special chemical called prolactin, which helps them feel close and care for their kids. Prolactin is the breastfeeding hormone – who knew dads releases this hormone too especially when holding your baby close.

Oxytocin, also called the love hormone, is high when parents bond with their kids. For dads, it goes up when they play rough and tumble. For mums, it peaks when they kiss and hug their kids. For more information visit Halton Family Hubs

When men become dads, their bodies make less testosterone. This helps them be better at taking care of their kids. Scientists found that when men have babies, their testosterone levels go down. This makes them naturally more caring. So, being a dad changes their bodies to help them be good parents.

10 ways to engage in positive parenting

Dads are not often told about how they play a major role in the development of their child. Stereotypes such as dad being the “babysitter” and unable to manage the kids himself is simply untrue and harmful. Dads play such a crucial role. Below are some suggestions of how you can be the best possible dad.

  1. Spend Quality Time: Make time for your children, whether it’s playing games, reading together, or just talking. Quality time helps build strong bonds and shows your children they are valued.
  2. Listen Actively: Pay attention to what your children say and show interest in their thoughts and feelings. This helps them feel respected and understood.
  3. Be a Role Model: Demonstrate the values and behaviors you want your children to adopt. Children learn a lot by observing their parents.
  4. Discipline with Love: Set clear boundaries and enforce them calmly and fairly. Discipline should be about teaching, not punishing.
  5. Show Affection: Regularly express your love and affection. Hugs, words of encouragement, and positive reinforcement go a long way in building a child’s self-esteem.
  6. Support Their Interests: Encourage your children to pursue their passions and interests. Be their biggest cheerleader and provide the resources they need to explore their hobbies.
  7. Teach Life Skills: Involve your children in everyday tasks like cooking, budgeting, and fixing things around the house. These skills are invaluable as they grow up.
  8. Respect Their Mother: Whether you are together or not, showing respect for your children’s mother sets a positive example and creates a stable environment for your children.
  9. Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you are physically and mentally healthy. A well-balanced father can provide better support and care for his children.
  10. Be Present: Try to be fully present when you are with your children. Put away distractions like phones and focus on enjoying the moment with them.

Remember, every family is unique, so adapt these tips to fit your situation. What matters most is your consistent effort and love. How do you currently spend time with your children?

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MONEY WORRIES

Are money worries affecting your wellbeing? Read our guide on the practical steps you can take to calm your mind, plus tips on where to seek expert support.

Mental Health Awareness Week

Helping men cope with grief and loss

Whether it is the death of a loved one, the breakdown of a relationship or the loss of a child, losing someone or something we love can have a devastating impact.