It goes without saying that renting is stressful, the elusive landlord when the boiler breaks down, minimum notice periods and the price of renting. It can be impossible to call a place ‘home’ if you could get kicked out with the minimum amount of notice. With many millennial having moved house time and time again, it is no wonder that we are 75% more likely to experience mental health problems.
As humans, we like a bit of security. In fact, it sits as a high priority in our basic needs second only to food and water. When our security is threatened, we can become depressed and anxious which can impact other aspects of our lives. Reaching long term goals can become more of a challenge when you are unsure where you will be living in a few months time.
Here are a few things you can do to improve your mental health and work towards owning your own property.
Make a plan
Feeling out of control can often lead to anxiety. Making a plan is the first step to gaining control in any situation. If renting is affecting your mental health, having a plan to get onto the property ladder is the first step. Take a look at the bigger picture to see what you could afford and how much of a deposit you will need, then start mapping out the steps to get there. Even starting small, £5, £10 or £25 a month, will focus your mind on the goal and help you feel a bit more in control.
Mindfulness
Always make time for yourself. Whether it is meditation, walking, gardening or even ironing. Doing something that removes you from the stressful situation, focusing on the present can help you clear your mind and lower the stress hormone, cortisol. Understanding exactly how you are feeling and how you got there, can enable you to start working on what you need to do to feel better. You don’t need an expensive yoga studio or life coach, there are a wealth of articles online and many apps you can download to get started. Check these out:
Calm (Free and Paid Plans - Android and iOS) - These 10 minute meditation sessions are a great way to take time for yourself. With reminders daily, you can be sure you’re taking care of number one, everyday.
Down Dog (Free and Paid Plans - Android and iOS) - All you need is some comfortable clothes and this app. Pick your level and you're off.
Local walks (Online) - Enter your local information and pick your walk. This list of local walks helps you discover places to explore near you. With difficulty level and length listed, you can pick the ideal walk for you.
Talk to someone
Possibly the most important step for supporting your mental health. Talking. Talking to friends, family or a trained professional about your mental health allows them to support you through difficult times. Opening up about your feelings can help you feel less alone and more supported. Often, you will be able to gain different perspectives when talking through a problem to help you deal with it.
If you’re looking to escape the stress of renting, why not see if one of our circles fits your needs and get support onto the property ladder?
Michaela Regan
Michaela is the Head of Communications at StepLadder and is passionate about helping people be at their best!
