Many of us may feel slightly low from time to time but there are some tried and trusted steps you can take to help ease your mood and make yourself feel better:

Exercise.

Don’t sit on the sofa eating Haagen-dazs! Moving around releases endorphins (natural chemicals in the brain that boost feelings of happiness and wellbeing). Try adding 30 minutes’ gentle exercise three times per week to your routine and build it up to five times. Swimming, running, cycling or just walking in the fresh air can all have a positive effect on mood.

Eat healthily.

Maintaining a balanced diet helps strengthen the immune system and keeps us healthy.

Stimulating ongoing production of serotonin in the brain can also help to maintain a good mood as it plays a role in regulating brain chemistry. Serotonin is produced when an amino acid called tryptophan is consumed, so try to include tryptophan-rich food (turkey, fish, chicken, nuts, eggs and cheese) in your diet.

Sleep.

A good night’s sleep is so important: tiredness can cause irritability and frustration. Try and relax in the hours leading up to bedtime, make sure the room is dark, quiet and not too hot. Perhaps try going to bed an hour earlier, or get into a regular routine so your body knows it’s bedtime.

Beat stress.

Stress can contribute to low mood and negative thoughts. Practising yoga, taking a long bath or learning some deep breathing exercises are all great stress-busters. There aren’t any rules - it’s just a matter of finding which method of beating stress suits you best.

Listen.

Women everywhere find that putting on uplifting music can be a great way of boosting mood. An upbeat song can cheer you up, or stir happy memories.

Share.

It can be difficult but try to talk to family, partner or friends about your feelings. Sharing the load can make it feel lighter, and having someone who understands - and cares about - what you are going through might help.

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