The 5 H’s: Hope, Hugs, Hunting, Humour, & Hendrix

Mental health is a work in progress and something we are always tinkering with. It’s not something that we ‘achieve’ because it is constantly changing.

There are various models and structures that help guide our positive outlook and one is the 5Hs.

1. Hope

Hope is a resource we can call upon when facing an obstacle to help us cope, manage and flourish.

Holding positive expectations for the future helps us thrive across various areas of our life including work and school. It’s galvanizing.

When we generate hope then we are motivated to act positively and we are propelled to do well. It reduces feelings of helplessness, increases happiness, reduces stress, and improves our quality of life.

2. Hugs

Hugs feel good and they have many health benefits. When the arms of a friend or loved one envelop us then we get a burst of well-being and pleasure that can last much longer than the hug itself.

Hugs release endorphins, make us feel wanted and valued and can help maintain relationships. They make us feel safe and trusted. They can fight off stress, lessen negative thoughts, increase our self-esteem and help the body fight infections.

As Winnie the Pooh says, “A hug is always the right size.”

3. Hunting

Being a hunter gatherer today means going out and looking for the positives. We need to fill our lives with the positive in order to feel good and so that means surrounding ourselves with positive role models, positive thoughts and anything and anyone that can give us a boost.

This means avoiding the toxic situations and mood-hoovers that can bring us down but going out of our way to hunt the positive.

4. Humour

If you don’t laugh then you’ll cry.

It’s true, laughter is the best medicine and so having a laugh and giggle on a regular basis is essential for boosting our mood.

When we laugh it strengthens our immune system, protects us from stress and reduces pain. It also draws us together and creates strong feel-good bonds.  So, let’s turn to Winnie the Pooh again who says, “Laugh ’til your tummy hurts!”

5. Hendrix

Music has the power to make us feel on top of the world. It can also do the opposite so we need to tread carefully. Find and play the music that uplifts you and play it to keep your spirits high.

If it’s not Hendrix it might be Haircut 100, Howard Jones, Haddaway, Hawkwind or Hot Chocolate. Whatever letter of the alphabet you select, go with the music that makes you feel great.