Dr Vicki Edwards is a Clinical Psychologist and Director of Leicester’s Purple House Clinic – a mental health and therapy clinic based on King Street.
With the longer nights and the financial and social pressures of the festive season right around the corner, Vicki has penned a guide for the Leicester community on how to practice gratitude and how helpful this can be for everyone’s overall wellbeing.
Picture credit: The Purple Clinic
A recent study by Leicester City Council has revealed that one in six (17%) adults love with poor mental wellbeing – this is an estimated 47,000 residents in Leicester.
Vicki’s guide has been created to support those struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression or other mental difficulties. It covers some of the key ways to find ‘pockets of peace and happiness in everyday life’ and gratitude in seemingly more mundane and ‘normal’ moments.
Here are some of her tips for practicing gratitude in everyday life:
Gratitude journaling.
Vicki encourages people to focus on the positives of everyday life by writing down what you are thankful for.
“Taking the time to acknowledge what you have and the positives of life can help to shift your mindset,” she says.
Picture: Unsplash
Morning meditation/contemplation
According to Vicki, this is a good way to start your day.
“For 30 seconds when you wake up it’s important to reflect on how fortunate you are and remind yourself that every day is a fresh start with endless positive outcomes”.
Picture credit: Unsplash
Volunteering and giving back
Vicki herself has worked with many charities throughout her career, such as YMCA and LAMP.
“By volunteering your time or supporting a cause you are passionate about you can experience the fulfilment that comes from giving,” she says.
Picture credit: Unsplash
To find out more, visit: https://www.purplehouseclinic.co.uk/maintaining-your-mental-health-during-the-festive-season
