Exercise, eating healthily and spending time with family are the most popular things Brits do to look after their mental health

Exercise, eating healthily and spending time with family are the most popular things Brits do to look after their mental health. 

A survey of 2,000 UK adults revealed one in four have also attempted a new diet or exercise regime in the past three months to boost their wellbeing. And 46% have simply tried to get out and about more often. However, while 29% feel their physical health has improved during lockdown, 36% felt their mental health has worsened. 

As a result, the study commissioned by Bupa Health Clinics to mark the launch of its new health assessments, found 85% of all adults have been taking steps to address this aspect of their health. 

Dr Arun Thiyagarajan, medical director, said: “Looking after our mental health is equally as important as our physical health, so we need to take steps to ensure we’re looking after both. 

“Usually these come hand in hand, for example if you’re eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly you tend to feel better mentally. 

"But there are other things you can do such as practising mindfulness and speaking to loved ones about how you’re feeling which can boost your mood. 

“If you’re struggling with your mental health please do speak to your GP who will be able to help.” 

But the study revealed that of the 60% who’ve ever attempted a new regime to boost their mental or physical wellbeing, 79% admitted they found it hard to stick to it. A lack of drive (47%), losing interest (34%) and not seeing the results quickly enough (31%) were among the reasons why they found it tricky. But 45% also felt overwhelmed by the information available about how to improve their health. 

It also emerged that the most common motivation for wanting to get in shape is to get a good night’s sleep, keeping up with the kids and reducing their chances of getting COVID-19. And 4 in 10 adults believe a healthier lifestyle could limit the chances of them developing underlying health conditions. 

But a quarter of those polled, via OnePoll, hope changes to how they live will mean they are less at risk of catching Covid-19. Dr Arun Thiyagarajan added: “The Covid-19 pandemic has thrown our health and wellbeing into the spotlight, and it’s no surprise that people are looking to make long-term positive changes to their overall lifestyle. 

“Despite being motivated, it can still be hard to actually take the steps towards making these changes. 

“Everyone’s health and wellbeing is unique and what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another, so it’s important to find what works for you - help and advice is available for those who need it. 

“In our health clinics, we see many people who take up fad diets or extreme exercise programmes that are difficult to stick to. 

"We want to encourage people to adopt a healthier approach that they can maintain all year round - with ongoing support and advice of our lifestyle and health advisors.” 

For more information, visit the Bupa site.