Self-care is about the things we can do to look after our own mental health
Young people told us that when they are struggling they are usually told to see a professional. They don’t often get much advice about how they could help themselves.
So, we spoke to professionals and looked at academic research. Then we drew up a list of strategies young people use (you can see the process in this self-care infographic). We also published a report following a consultation with young people and their families online.
We're sharing these strategies with you to help you to manage your wellbeing. It’s up to you to decide what helps. If it works, keep doing it. If it doesn’t, stop and try something else. And you can help us build an evidence-base for these activities by letting us know what works by clicking on the ‘Did this activity help your mental wellbeing’ button on each page. This will help us decide which ones to research further. We've also created a booklet to help you create your own self-care plan as part of our and another booklet with advice for young parents and carers on looking after their wellbeing.
These activities are not a substitute for seeing a mental health professional. Sometimes we need outside help and advice. Getting help is good. No-one should feel bad about it. That’s what this site is about.
This self-care section was developed by Common Room and young people from mental health support group Hearts & Minds.
These strategies were identified by young people aged 11-25 though some strategies might not be appropriate for all ages without support or guidance of a trusted adult.
Return to On My Mind landing page.
-
Light therapy
-
Homeopathy preparations
-
Online chat or peer group support
-
Youth Groups
-
Positive thinking
-
Face-to-face informal support
-
Meditation
-
Listening to podcasts
-
Sport
-
Little actions to release tension
-
Gaming
-
Getting a job
-
Spending time with supportive people
-
Spending time with friends
-
Baking & cooking
-
Relaxation techniques
-
Silence
-
Aromatherapy and fragrance
-
Activism
-
ASMR
-
Confronting your fears
-
Problem solving
-
Virtual reality therapy courses
-
Photography
-
Warm bath
-
Crying
-
Learning a language
-
Text message support
-
Thinking about things
-
Chinese herbal medicine
-
Mindfulness
-
Over the counter medications
-
Self-talk
-
Spending time in nature
-
Walking
-
Drawing or painting
-
Drama
-
Listening to music
-
Colour therapy
-
Distraction techniques
-
Noticing your triggers
-
Yoga
-
Reducing consumption of stimulants and other drugs
-
Herbal/plant-based remedies
-
Revision
-
Challenge negative feelings
-
Laughter / humour
-
Creative writing
-
Massage
-
Eating a balanced diet
-
Rewards
-
Psychoeducation
-
Ecotherapy
-
Going to the cinema
-
Listening to your body
-
Email support
-
Goal-setting
-
Physical exercise
-
Coding
-
Telephone support
-
Being outside
-
Faith and religion
-
Developing a balanced sense of self
-
Writing things down
-
Alone time
-
Going on day trips or holiday
-
Sleep
-
Spending time with animals / pets
-
Daydreaming & Visualisation
-
Setting boundaries
-
Letting off steam
-
Acceptance
-
Boardgames
-
Watching YouTube, TV or Films
-
Making music
-
Pilates
-
Unsupported online, computer or app-based CBT
-
Dance
-
Books & Reading
-
Understanding negative thoughts and feelings
-
Tai Chi & Qigong
-
Crafting
-
Time away from technology
-
Apps delivering self-help strategies
-
Volunteering & taking care of others
-
Be kind to yourself
-
Personal care & hygiene
-
Water therapy
-
Organise your day
-
Shopping
-
Hope box
-
Spiritual healing
-
Playing