We’ve all heard the phrase “put your own oxygen mask on first”, but how many of us actually do it?
We can feel we need to be the strong one, that if we don’t hold everything together, it will all fall apart. It’s easy to say “I don’t have time”, “I don’t matter” or “It’s not important”, but it is important, and you are.
Sometimes difficulties in life can make you feel low. The pressures of day-to-day life, and the many hats you might wear for work, family and social commitments, can leave you running on fumes. Finding some time for you in the week can help you recharge and have the energy and headspace for what you need to do.
Mindfulness and grounding techniques can be a useful way to take a short pause and bring your attention to the present moment. The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a simple exercise that uses your senses to help you notice what is around you:
- Name 5 things you can see
- Name 4 things you can hear
- Name 3 things you can touch
- Name 2 things you can smell
- Name 1 thing you can taste
Why counselling can be an important act of self-care
Counselling can give you valuable time, about you and for you, to explore your thoughts and feelings in a space where you can feel heard, free of judgement or expectation. It is a dedicated 50 minutes to explore what you want to explore and to work together to find the answers you’re looking for.
You might consider talking to someone if:
- you feel overwhelmed
- you want to understand your feelings
- you’re struggling with everyday life
- you’re constantly putting everyone else first
- you’d like some time and space for yourself
Face-to-face counselling
I offer face-to-face counselling in Bolton. I am here to facilitate a space for you to explore whatever you want to bring to a session: your thoughts, your feelings, at your own pace. Time to feel what you want to feel, say what you need to say, and begin to find your own way through with support.
If you’re unsure whether counselling is right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch by emailing me at sarahsloancounselling@gmail.com so we can arrange a no-obligation phone call to talk about what you’re looking for and whether we might be a good fit to work together.
When loss or anxiety feels like too much, talking can help.
If you need urgent help
Counselling is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis or need urgent mental health support, please visit the Support section on the confidentiality and support page for information about where you can get immediate support.
Further support
You may also find the following organisations helpful:
