STOP THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL

Feeling flat or run-down? These simple steps can help you turn things around

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A downward spiral is something most of us have experienced. It can begin innocently – a few restless nights, snapping at loved ones or reaching for sugar and caffeine to get through the day. Exercise falls by the wayside, aches and pains become more common, and minor illnesses seem harder to shake. Emotional wellbeing takes a hit too, with confidence giving way to self-doubt.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we spoke with psychologist Dr Galia BarHava to find out what to do to combat these spirals. “It often starts subtly,” says Galia. “Before long, you’re in quicksand – your motivation drops, your inner critic gets louder and even conversations with your colleagues feel threatening.”

The result is a cycle – low mood, poor habits and physical symptoms reinforce each other. Unchecked, this spiral can have a serious impact on relationships, work performance and long-term health.

WHY IT HAPPENS
Galia, who’s a renowned expert in organisational culture and a psychologist with a PhD in person-centred healthcare, explains that a tough or prolonged period of professional and/or personal challenge triggers the body’s fight, flight or freeze response. This protective mechanism becomes harmful when it’s constantly activated by modern pressures.