There has been a lot in the news recently about mental health issues, and how to cope with them. Depression is now becoming recognised as a medical condition, rather than something to be swept under the carpet. It still seems that men have a tough time coming to terms with it, and many other emotional traumas, but hopefully that will change after Prince Harry has been so open about his need for counselling.

There’s been a lot of research done into depression and it does seem that women rather than men are more susceptible, or maybe it is that they’re just more able to recognise their emotions. There are lots of things you can do to lift your mood, but for more serious conditions do consult your doctor.

Exercise can lift your mood, whether it’s at the gym or just walking outside in the fresh air can be enough to make you feel more positive.

Natural outdoor light is good too. Exposure to the sun’s rays ensures we are getting vitamin D in our system. Even on an overcast day, it will still have the desired effect. Lack of vitamin D can make you feel very tired and lethargic.

Pay attention to your posture too.We spend a lot of time these days hunched over computers or phones, so lift yourself up and stretch. Try joining a yoga or pilates class where you can learn about posture and how different it makes you feel by standing tall.

Just being in good company can be very uplifting. So if you get the chance, go out and enjoy yourself, even if you don’t feel like it. Sometimes the outings we dread the most turn out to be the best and most memorable.