Harry Judd: "Getting out of bed can be the hardest thing"
McFly star shares mental health journey, as he encourages people to embrace nature for Mental Health Awareness Week
McFly star Harry Judd has spoken of his mental health struggles, as he encourages people to embrace the outdoors for Mental Health Awareness Week.
The Strictly winner has battled anxiety and now uses exercise and outdoor fitness to keep himself physically and mentally fit.
He was speaking during Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year is focussed on nature and embracing the outdoors.
Taking small steps to improve mental health
Harry told us sometimes even getting out of bed can be a struggle, but he urged people who might feel that way to take small steps:
He said "I've been there. I've had periods when getting out of bed can be the hardest thing.
"That can often be the biggest struggle of the day, but I can guarantee once you manage to get yourself up and about, the fresh air, the exercise, we're human beings and there's a natural requirement for us to have that connection with nature, and I'd say to people 'You'd be surprised'.
"Getting out, going for a bit of a walk, connecting with nature, something that can feel quite small can have a huge impact."
WATCH: Harry Judd speaks to Mick Coyle for Mental Health Awareness Week 2021
"Completely all-consuming"
A survey undertaken in 2020 revealed that 42% of UK adults felt their mental health had suffered since the outbreak of Covid-19.
Harry's spoken openly in the past about battles with anxiety, and he now puts sleep and exercise at the forefront of his personal wellbeing plan.
But it wasn't always the case: "I would describe it as all-consuming, but I think you can look back at it with hope and positivity. Even though you can remember those times, it feels all-consuming, it feels like you're stuck, but there is a way out.
"You can build back up, and look back and its hard to reconnect with those awful feelings."
Free wellbeing e-book
Research suggests the natural world plays a significant role in supporting mental health, from reducing stress and easing anxiety to increasing positivity and inspiring creativity.
To help people to look after their mental health Harry's contributed to a new eBook titled ‘Take A Breath,’ which contains ideas, exercises and activities to inspire readers to connect with nature.
The eBook, created by Simply Health includes insight from the Mental Health Foundation into the link between nature and the mind.
Simply Health will donate £5 to the Mental Health Foundation each time it's downloaded.
Where to get help for your mental health
If you want to talk to someone about your mental health, or have questions about things like anxiety or depression there are many different resources available.
You can visit Mind, The Mental Health Foundation or services like Young Minds.
You can also find services near to you via the the Hub of Hope.
You can speak to your GP
Or speak to the Samaritans on 116 123
For people who prefer to text, you can text SHOUT to 85258
Don't suffer in silence.