Provides information on mindfulness, how to practise it and how it can help with mental health problems.
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Although anyone can try it, being mindful isn't always easy to do. It can take practice, and might not be right for everyone. There is a lot of information available about mindfulness, which can feel overwhelming or confusing.
This page covers:
When thinking about whether mindfulness is right for you, there are some practical considerations. It might help to think about the following before you try it out:
For your physical and mental health, it might help to think about the following before trying mindfulness:
"Sometimes mindfulness puts me in touch with feelings I've been pushing away. In the long term that's better but at the time it can be really distressing."
Although some people find mindfulness helpful, not everyone does. Mindfulness might not be the best option for you. Or it might help you at some times and not others. If you've tried something and it hasn't helped, it's important not to blame yourself.
Looking after your mental health can be really difficult, especially when you're not feeling well. It can take time and may not be straightforward. But many people find that with the right combination of treatments, self-care and support, it is possible to feel better.
For other options you can explore, see our pages on looking after your wellbeing and seeking help for a mental health problem.
"When I'm in a particularly unwell state mindfulness is not beneficial, as I cannot bring myself into the present at all."
This information was published in November 2021. We will revise it in 2024.
References and bibliography available on request.
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