What To Do When You Need Help With Your Mental Health

I struggle with anxiety. If you are like me and you struggle with your mental health, then you will need to make sure that you are doing a lot to keep on top of it. In truth, this is something that all of us need to do, as mental health issues can strike any of us at any time in our lives. It’s useful to therefore know how you can find help when you need it, and as it happens there are a lot of ways in which you might be able to do that. Let’s take a look at some of the most important places to look for help with your mental health.

Speak To Someone Close To You

Usually the first port of call is going to be someone close to you, as you might find that they are the easiest to talk to. They might or might not understand what you are going through, but either way you should find that they are going to be able to help you out at least by offering a shoulder to cry on. You might then find that you need help of other kinds as well, but starting here is certainly something that you might want to think about.

See A Doctor

Often, your doctor is a good person to go to with your problems too. They might be able to refer you onwards to someone who can help, and they can also often act as a good sounding board. Sometimes there are also physical ailments which might be related to your mental health issues, so in those cases it’s good to be aware of those and to know that there is some kind of solution to them. Seeing a doctor in this case is often a good move to make, and it’s something to consider if you are especially worried.

Find A Treatment Center

For those suffering profoundly who think they might need some ongoing and hands-on help with their daily life, mental health treatment centers might be the place to go. There are probably some of these centers in your local area, and they can be an enormous help if you are struggling with your mental health in any serious kind of way. If you can find such a center and tell them what is going on with you, that should help you in the long run, so consider this if you think it’s relevant and necessary.

And of course, mental health problems are what therapists are there for, so you might want to also think about finding a trained therapist in your local area that you can go and speak to. They will be well-versed in a wide range of similar situations to your own, and you might be surprised at how much this is going to help you to get better again. They will also be able to make other recommendations of people who could help, should that be relevant in your own case, so it’s hugely valuable.

Keep Your House Cool This Summer

The AC in our home recently broke, and as it’s starting to get hot outside lets just say it wasn’t very pleasant. If you are not sure how to keep your home cool or if you want to make sure that you are not accidentally letting more heat in than you should be, then this is the guide for you.

Try and Block out the Sun

This may seem quite obvious, but a lot of people really do like to have light and sun streaming through their window. If you are wondering how to keep your home cool in summer, then you probably want to resist the temptation to keep your windows and your blinds closed during the day. You need to take into account if your windows are south-facing or if you are north-facing too. This will help you to anticipate which rooms are going to get hot and it will also give you the chance to move as the sun sets.

Invest in Some House Plants

House plants are ideal if you want to keep your home cool. There is no denying that they can make your home a lot happier too. House plants can boost your mood and they act as natural air conditioners too. They generate a lot of moisture and they put it into the atmosphere through transpiration. Some of the most heat-efficient plants include peace lilies and rubber plants as they are ideal if you struggle with humid conditions. If you can, you need to keep your air conditioning unit maintained too. You can check out the DUCTZ company if you want to try and get some help with that.

Eat Outside

Another thing that you can do is eat outside if you can. Don’t use the oven because if you do, then you may find that you end up adding extra heat into your home. Get the BBQ out if you can and also make sure that you focus on cold foods. When you are outdoors, shut the doors and the windows as this will help you to keep the cool air inside. There are lots of summer recipes that you can use and there are even no-cook salads out there that you can use too.

Turn your Lights Off

Light bulbs are yet another source of heat in homes, and ideally, you should keep them turned off when you are trying to keep your home nice and cool. The type of lightbulb that you choose can also have a huge impact on your heat-generating capabilities too. Conventional light bulbs give off a lot of waste, so it is a good idea for you to switch to a low-energy light bulb if possible. This will stop overheating and it will save you a small fortune.

Of course, there is always going to be some heat coming into your home if it is super-hot outside, but at the end of the day, if you can take the time to shut out as much as possible, then this can really work in your favour.

 

 

Things Everyone Should Do While Traveling To Foreign Countries

Traveling to a foreign country can be a fantastic experience. It’s a chance to learn about new cultures and see some of the world’s most beautiful landmarks. However, there are some things that everyone should do while they’re in a foreign country to get the best possible experience. The following blog will discuss some essential things that you should do while you travel to a foreign country!

Eat Local Food

One of the best ways to experience a foreign country is by trying the local food. When you’re in a new country, be adventurous and try some foods that you wouldn’t normally eat. You might be surprised at how much you like them!

Local food not only allows you to get a taste of the culture, but it can also be a great way to meet locals. People are often more than happy to recommend their favorite restaurants or dishes to visitors.

If you’re worried about getting sick from eating unfamiliar food, there are a few things that you can do to minimize your risk. Stick to cooked meals rather than raw ones, and make sure that the meat is properly cooked. Avoid street food unless it’s been recommended by a trusted source. And, of course, wash your hands often!

Attend A Local Meetup Or Event

Another great way to experience a foreign country is by attending a local meetup or event. This is an excellent opportunity to meet locals and learn about their culture. There are often meetups for travelers, so it’s a great way to make new friends as well!

To find meetups, you can search online or ask the staff at your hotel or hostel. If you’re interested in something specific, like hiking or photography, there may be groups that cater to your interests. Attend an event that sounds fun and see what it’s like!

Learn Some Of The Local Language

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in a foreign culture is by learning some local languages. Even if you only learn a few basic phrases, it will make your experience much more enjoyable. Locals will appreciate your efforts, and you’ll be able to communicate more easily with them.

There are many resources that you can use to learn a new language, such as online courses or apps. If you’re traveling for an extended period of time, consider taking a formal class. Many languages have similarities, so if you know one, it may be easier to learn another.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes when speaking! Everyone starts somewhere, and locals will usually be patient with you. Just try your best and have fun with it.

Visit Some Of The Local Attractions

Of course, you’ll want to visit some of the local attractions while you’re in a foreign country! This is a great way to see some of the most famous landmarks and get a feel for the culture. Do some research before you go so that you can plan your itinerary.

If you’re on a tight budget, there are often free or discounted days at museums and other attractions. You can also find discounts by purchasing tickets in advance or through certain websites. Be sure to take advantage of these deals so that you can save money!

In conclusion, there are many things that you should do while you’re in a foreign country. By following these tips, you can have a unique and memorable experience!

3 Ways To Update Your Apartment On A Budget

Living in an apartment often has its restrictions, especially if you’re renting. In more than a few cases, however, you’ll have more freedom than you’d expect; you’ll be allowed to paint and update the apartment in various ways.

As appealing as that is, there are some limitations. Your budget might be one of the more notable. Once you know how to update your apartment on a budget, you shouldn’t have an issue. Armed with a few tips – and your landlord’s permission – there isn’t anything in your way.

Doing more than adding some home decor can be recommended.

How To Update Your Apartment On A Budget: 3 Top Options

1. Address Any Repairs

One of the more notable ways to update your apartment on a budget is to address any repairs. Depending on the circumstances, the landlord may be the one paying for it, so it mightn’t cost you a penny. You’ll still need to make them aware of any repairs that need to be done.

The likes of ceiling repair, appliance replacement, and similar responsibilities fall under your landlord’s purview, so make sure they’re aware of them. You’ll get an updated apartment without needing to spend anything on it.

2. Consider Peel & Stick Flooring

Redoing the floor may be an impossible option for multiple reasons. Not only can it be expensive, but the landlord may have an objection if you’re renting. That doesn’t mean you don’t have options; you could consider peel and stick flooring if you have a stone or wood flooring.

It can also work on tiles. As the name suggests, you can stick this onto the floor and simply peel it off when you need to. While this was historically a low-quality option – especially when you’re choosing an affordable pick – they’ve become much more high-quality in recent years.

You could be surprised by the various options you may have. You can transform your floors without spending much while ensuring you like how it looks.

3. Replace The Faucets

Regardless of whether you own the apartment or are renting, there’s a decent chance your bathroom and kitchen faucets aren’t as appealing as you’d like. Landlords are especially gregarious in not having nice-looking faucets. Why not consider replacing them?

New faucets don’t cost too much and can be relatively easy to install yourself. You could replace all of the ones in your home in an afternoon. Aside from the new faucet being there, there’ll be no signs of any work being done once you’re finished. Not only does it benefit you, but your landlord shouldn’t mind it.

If you plan on renting the apartment long-term, this is a more than recommended way to update it.

How To Update Your Apartment On A Budget: Wrapping Up

Once you know how to update your apartment on a budget, there’s nothing stopping you from making things look and feel better. If you’re renting, make sure you get their written consent before doing anything – you wouldn’t want to be in a position where you have to undo any renovations you’ve done.

Armed with that, there’s nothing stopping you making your apartment look and feel nicer.

Tips for Making Every Day A Little Better

Your life and how you live it is in your hands. You’re in the driver’s seat calling the shots and creating a path that may lead you to new and exciting opportunities.

If you’re currently feeling stuck in one place or feel like you’re in a slump then you’ve come to the right place to try and turn your mindset and attitude around. Here are some ideas for how to change your life for the better so you can feel happy and enjoy each day to the fullest.

Exercise Daily & Track Your Food

Change your life for the better by being more physically active and eating right. Exercise daily and track your food so you can maintain a healthy weight. Your clothes will fit better and you’ll be healthier for doing so both in mind and body. You’ll have more energy and can boost your mood when you remain active and eat nutritious foods. There are many activities you can do that will have you burning calories and smiling ear to ear when you’re finished, so mix up your routine often.

Move Apartments or Locations

One reason you may be feeling low or down is because of your messy roommate or the location where you live. In this case, it might be time for a change of scenery and some new adventures. Consider using your local removalist to help you move apartments or locations so you can start fresh somewhere else where you can follow your career dreams and make new friendships. It may be all you need to feel alive and well again.

Spend Time with Uplifting People

Turn your life and situation around for the better by spending time with uplifting people. Choose to have relationships with those who support you and want to see you succeed. Distance yourself from people who are pessimistic and drag you down and you’ll likely find that you feel and are happier and have more self-confidence. When you make time for being with the people you love you’ll have a brighter outlook on life.

Review A Gratitude List Regularly

It’s not only about being grateful in general but getting in the habit of doing so each day. Make a gratitude list and review it regularly so that these items are at the forefront of your mind as you go about your day. It’ll help transform your mindset so that you’re more optimistic and forward-thinking instead of always dwelling on the past or what you don’t have. Try to stop comparing yourself to others and complaining and focus on all your blessings instead.

Take Breaks & Time Off

It’s good to take breaks and time away from your normal routine and responsibilities. Shake things up by taking time off to go on a vacation or schedule a day out of the office to do nothing. Change your life for the better by recognizing that it’s important to not only work hard but to rest and recharge as well. You’ll feel more energized and be in a rewarding headspace when you avoid overdoing it and don’t spread yourself too thin. 

How To Be Happier

Don’t worry be happy. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was as simple as the saying goes? As we all strive to be happier, here are some strategies for helping you feel more confident and positive: 

Don’t Compare Yourself To Others 

Comparing yourself to others might make you feel horrible about yourself and drive you to withdraw from people because you don’t feel good enough. It’s better to avoid comparison in any aspect of your life, whether it’s parenthood, physical appearance, or work, as it can have a bad effect on your self-confidence. Instead, enjoy your small victories and remember that even if you’re only taking baby steps, you’re doing well. Keeping a thankfulness diary will help you be more aware of your accomplishments and positive attributes, making it easier to refer to them when you’re about to forget how far you’ve come. You can be encouraged by other people’s stories and experiences, but don’t diminish your own accomplishments.

Treat Your Body With Respect 

Your physical appearance can have a significant impact on your self-esteem. Being deliberate about following a healthy lifestyle will reap numerous benefits, not only physiologically but also for your general well-being. To feel more energized and avoid difficulties such as obesity, you can begin by introducing healthier foods into your diet. Furthermore, regular exercise will help you stay in shape and, as a result, improve your body image. Building habits, such as going to the doctor on a regular basis, might also be beneficial. For example, visiting dentists can help you keep healthy teeth so that you can smile confidently, which can improve your self-image.

Another area of this is to make sure you dress and present yourself how you want to be seen. Confidence can be built up by wearing little details that you love such as a piece by Opal Australia, or a nice pair of shoes etc. 

Be Positive When Talking About Yourself

Words may either make or break you, how you speak about yourself can make or break your self-esteem. Standing in front of mirrors in the mornings and telling yourself why you’re beautiful from the inside out can help set the stage for a productive day. Making positive affirmations can also give you the mindset to overcome obstacles and face your anxieties without uncertainty. Furthermore, it will assist you in celebrating the numerous things that make you unique and will help you hush any negative thoughts that try to clutter your head. Positive self-talk will also improve your mental health.

Create Positive Energy In Your Environment

The words and behaviors of others around you can have a big impact on your self-confidence. As a result, who you surround yourself with is extremely important when attempting to improve your self-esteem. To safeguard your self-esteem, you may need to be aggressive at times, know to say no and quit any unhealthy relationships. Identifying the very few people who are always around you, uplifting you, and exuding positive energy will boost your self-confidence tremendously.

These tips should help to keep you confident and positive. Do you have any other tips that could help? Please share some of them in the comments below. 

 

5 Questions To Ask When Looking For Your Dream Apartment

Moving into a new space opens up a world of opportunities, it’s like getting to start out fresh, even if you are going to live in the same city. This gives you the chance to reevaluate your priorities to see what you’re wanting. This, of course, means that there will be some nerve-wracking aspects because you’re moving of course! When it comes to finding that right home, you want everything to be perfect, from the price, the sizing, the style, the character, and everything in between. But it all started with having some handy steps to get you started.

What type of location?

Location is everything, this is going to affect the price of the apartment (regardless if you’re renting or buying), this is going to play a factor in what’s going to be around you such as your work, school, etc. But the commute is another thing to keep in mind when mapping out your dream apartment. Maybe you want a short walk to the grocery store, and no more than a 10-minute drive to work. Make sure you know exactly what you’re wanting and start writing some general locations that you have in mind.

What sort of layout are you wanting?

Thinking about a cute studio? Loft? What about one of those luxury penthouses? There are more than enough styles for apartments, so it’s best to get a general idea of what you’re exactly after. When it comes to an apartment the square footage matters, so make sure you have a plan of what you’re wanting. Wanting to have multiple bedrooms?

Prefer to have a separate dining room? Dreaming of having a balcony with a small garden? Whatever you have in mind, you need to think it through and ensure that you’re wanting something that fits into your lifestyle. Maybe Meriton Apartments has something that you’re after.

Are you willing to fix it up?

Some apartments are for sale or rent slightly cheaper than average because they need some fixing up. This could include adding in the flooring, lighting, painting the walls, but it can go far beyond that too. So are you willing to work on a fixer upper to create your dream apartment? How much work are you willing to put in so you can have your dream apartment? It’s best to be realistic with yourself about this.

What can you afford?

Regardless of whether you’re opting to make a purchase or renting the apartment, you need to know what you can and can’t afford. While living in a comfortable home is great, being financially comfortable is significantly more important.

What sort of amenities are you wanting?

There are a variety of amenities that apartments will have this can include having a gym available, being pet-friendly, covering utilities such as interior or trash, free parking, washing machines, and so much more. Having these are great and it could be cheaper in the long run to get an apartment that has some of the amenities that you were already after in the first place. 

How To Eat Healthier

Pexels

What you eat can impact your health, weight, and mood. It’s essential that if you want to feel and look good that you eat a nutritious diet.

It can be done with the right approach and attitude. All you need to do is change some of your habits and focus on the behaviors and tips that will give you the best results. Here you can learn some strategies for eating a well-balanced diet that will keep you on track and help you reach your fitness, food, and weight loss goals.

Cook at Home

One strategy for eating a well-balanced diet is to start cooking at home more frequently. This way you have more control over the ingredients you use and your portion sizes. You can make a grocery list and go and get healthy and fresh foods that aren’t as processed. Purposefully choose recipes with plenty of vegetables and fruits so you can fill your plate with these healthy options. Cooking will not only boost physical health but it can be a mentally relaxing and soothing activity to do as well. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to new and different recipes as you get better at preparing foods for yourself at home.

Everything in Moderation

Remind yourself that it’s good to have everything in moderation. It’s not about starving yourself or not giving into cravings when you have them. It may help to have a few snacks around your house to consume when you need to satisfy your desire for a sweet treat such as these no-bake chocolate weetbix slice. They’re the perfect food to have on hand when you want something that’s quick and tasty. The base for these bars is low in salt, low in sugar, and high in fiber. It may be just what you need to help you maintain a healthy diet while still giving in to some temptation when you are looking for an indulgence.

Keep A Food Journal

Another way to eat a well-balanced diet is to keep a food journal. It’ll allow you to clearly see what you’re eating and how much of it. Review your journal often so you gather more information about what you’re doing right and areas for improvement. Tracking this data down will ensure that you don’t lie to yourself about what you’re eating and can stay on course. A food journal or diary will help you see your eating patterns and habits more in-depth. It can be an effective way to change behaviors and can aid you in losing weight if that’s your goal.

Make A Plan & be Prepared

Eat a better and well-balanced diet by not rushing around or eating on the go. Instead, make a plan and be prepared for the week ahead. This way you can consume nutritious foods and snacks without being tempted to eat out as much. The key to fast, easy meal preparation is making an eating plan for each new week. Take some time on the weekends to grocery shop, chop and dice foods, and put together your meals and snacks so you can place them in the fridge or freeze and easily grab them as you need to.

Eat Smaller Meals More Often

You may also want to consider eating smaller meals more often to keep a well-balanced diet. It can be more beneficial and keep you fuller longer than consuming three large meals during the day. Remember to also stay hydrated in between your meals and snacks by drinking plenty of water. Opt for tea or flavored water if you don’t like it plain and avoid sugary drinks altogether. You might also find this helps you eat less throughout the day. You risk making unhealthy food choices if you end up waiting too long between meals to eat. Also, make sure you have nutritious snacks with you in your bag or at work that are easy to eat as you please.

Consume More Protein, Fruits & Vegetables

 

Make it a point to consume more protein, as well as more fruits and vegetables in your diet to stay healthy and well. If you’re going to eat carbohydrates then stick to eating whole grains and limiting processed foods overall. The healthier you eat the less desire and room in your stomach you’ll have for sugar, full-fat dairy, and salt. Fill your plate with nutritious options so you don’t end up eating more processed food and sugars than you wish. Eat your meal and then wait to see if you’re full before you go back for seconds. 

8 Beauty Activities You Can Do Right Now

If you’re stuck at home feeling bored, then this post is for you. In it, we take a look at some of the beauty activities that you can do right now to wile away the hours. 

Do Some Cupping

Cupping is an ancient healing technique introduced centuries ago, designed to help people through the worst of their symptoms and physical ailments. Largely forgotten, today it’s experiencing a resurgence and celebrities have started using it for soothing stiff muscles and improving circulation. Cupping is primarily for people who do heavy exercise, but anyone can potentially benefit from it. 

Give Your Hair Some TLC

If your hair is feeling a little dry after a long winter, you might want to give it some TLC with rise-off hair masks. These days, brands are including more natural ingredients in their products. Look for brands that use things like peppermint, amla and allspice as these natural ingredients are wonderful for both the hair and the scalp. After a couple of treatments, your hair will look sleeker, straighter and smoother. 

Get A DIY Salon Facial

You could go to the salon right now, or you could give yourself a similar facial. For instance, you could give yourself a personal microneedling (which can be a little painful) or recreate the famous hydrafacial with a combination of exfoliation, peel and moisturizer. 

Whiten Your Teeth

Even if you go to the dentist for regular scaling, teeth whitening is often essential. Tannins in food can cause them to look discolored over time, making them duller and less striking. 

You can whiten your teeth at home, but it’s best to go for professional bleaching if you want dramatic results. 

Get A Pedicure

Over the winter months, the dry air can cause your feet to start looking and feeling a little past their best. That’s why getting a pedicure is a great idea. 

You can either do this yourself, or you can go to a professional nail salon. Get them to remove any tough skin and treat your toenails which can sometimes become damaged from walking around in tight shoes all day long. 

Organize Your Makeup Drawer

If your makeup is a mess at the moment, try tidying it up a little. Organize it into various containers, and clean up your vanity or dresser, if you have one. 

If space is an issue, don’t be afraid to go big. Get rid of your small dresser and replace it with a larger one. Or, failing that, add some shelving to either side. 

Reduce Puffiness With Gua Sha

Gua sha is the act of passing smooth gemstones over your face. The idea is to use the rock’s inherent healing properties to reduce the inflammation in the skin and cut down on redness. 

Start Derma Rolling

Derma rolling is incredibly inexpensive if you buy your own kit. Rollers are often just a few dollars. They contain tiny needles which penetrate the skin, forcing it to increase its production of elastin and collagen. You can repeat the treatment once every six months or so. 

Have You Tried Bone Marrow?

Bone Marrow

Have you ever been tempted to try bone marrow whilst visiting one of your city’s delicious restaurants? Most people dismiss it in favour of some of the more popular types of meat. However, you should not ignore other parts of the animal that can be tasty and nutritious. Bone marrow ticks this box. It offers many health benefits for people to take advantage of. 


Bone marrow is a fatty, jello-like substance that is rich in energy and packed with nutrients. It is found within the core of an animal’s bones and it is viewed as a delicacy in many different countries. Because it is contained in the bone, you can obtain bone marrow whenever you purchase meat, whether from the supermarket or from a butcher. It is popular all over the globe, however, in the western world, this popularity is largely limited to a selection of gourmet restaurants.

Bone marrow is packed with flavour. If you think about it, when you eat bacon, the vast majority of this meat is fat and this is where the flavour comes from. Or, what about when you go out for dinner and indulge in a tasty cut of steak? Again, the meat’s flavour is largely thanks to the fat, and this is essentially what bone marrow is – an uncommon and delicious type of fat substance. You can easily order it via an online butcher as well.

Not only does it taste great, but it offers many health benefits as well. Bone marrow is packed with vital microelements. This includes manganese, magnesium, selenium, zinc, iron, calcium, and phosphorous. The presence of these microelements can help to improve the renal and cardiovascular system, whilst also strengthening immunity and improving mood, sleep, and memory. 

 

Bone marrow can also help with muscle and joint pain. Of course, it won’t be a remedy on its own. However, eating bone marrow does help because it contains hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate, all of which are compounds that lower joint pain and inflammation. 


By consuming bone marrow you will also get a good dose of the essential omega-3 fatty acids your body needs. This is vital for the proper functioning of the brain. Glycine is also present within the bone marrow, which is an amino that makes and repairs proteins in the body.

Whilst the benefits of bone marrow are vast, it is unlikely to be the first food that comes to your mind when dining out. However, bone marrow can be a great accompaniment to a meal. You can find a lot of different recipes online, which will teach you how to prepare and serve bone marrow. There are so many different ways you can enjoy this, from grilled to roasted bone marrow, and so you are bound to find something that suits your taste buds.