Digital Detox, Walk and Breathe Your Way to Mental Wellbeing, by Consultant Editor Dawn Carey

By Dawn Carey, CEO of In Charley's Memory & Mental Health Expert

Want to feel calmer, happier, and healthier today?

Simple changes can make a powerful difference to your mental wellbeing - at any age*

As CEO of mental health charity In Charley's Memory and Consultant Editor of The Good News Post, I've seen firsthand how small daily habits can transform mental wellness. 

Here are five science-backed tips that anyone can start using today:

1. DIGITAL DETOX

**Power down to power up**

- Set specific phone-free hours

- Turn off non-essential notifications

- Create phone-free zones in your home

*Research shows clear links between excessive social media use and anxiety, depression, and sleep problems*

2. WALK YOUR WAY TO WELLNESS

**Two miles daily for better mental health**

- Morning walks boost energy

- Evening walks improve sleep

- Any time walks reduce stress

*Walking releases endorphins, serotonin, and other "happiness hormones" in your brain*

3. SPREAD KINDNESS

**Be someone's reason to smile today**

- Help a neighbor

- Send an encouraging message

- Share a compliment

*Acts of kindness trigger oxytocin release, boosting both your mood and others'*

4.SHARE YOUR STORY

**You don't have to carry it alone**

- Talk to a trusted friend

- Connect with a counselor

- Join a support group

*Remember: Everyone struggles sometimes. Sharing halves the burden*

5. BREATHE WITH PURPOSE

**Your instant calm button**

Try this simple 5-5-5 technique:

1. Breathe in slowly for 5 seconds

2. Hold for 5 seconds

3. Breathe out for 5 seconds

*Deep breathing activates your body's natural relaxation response*

START TODAY

Pick just one of these tips and try it for a week. Notice how you feel. Then gradually add more as they become habits.

NEED MORE SUPPORT?

Visit www.incharleysmemory.co.uk for:

- Free resources

- Professional guidance

- Community support

- Mental health tools

Remember: Your mental health matters. Small steps today create big changes tomorrow.*

About Dawn Carey:

Dawn leads In Charley's Memory, a mental health charity supporting young people and adults. As Consultant Editor of The Good News Post, she champions positive mental health through practical, accessible advice.

If you're struggling, reach out. Help is always available.

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