Fake, fact, toxic. Where facts are becoming fake – that's toxic. In a world that is increasingly toxic, mental health has never become so important. Self-care is no longer a luxury; instead it has become a lifeline. It calls for us to be consistent and for it to be a proactive effort. By putting boundaries in place you protect your mental and emotional health.

The following may help:

Set Your Boundaries

Setting your boundaries is the difference between stress and peace. Make sure you're clear about those. Without clear boundaries in place, those who have a predisposition to interfere or control, will continue to over-step the mark.

Limit Your Exposure

It's always a good idea to avoid contact with people or situations that you know are going to be toxic. Although it's not always easy, be selective with who you choose to have in your circle.

Re-frame Your Internal Dialogue

If you're around toxic negative patterns for long enough your internal dialogue will also be negative. If you find you're spiralling into negative patterns, you can always try to re-frame negative thoughts, by using stress management tools. Deep breathing exercises and muscle relaxation techniques are all good tools to help reduce stress.

Learn to Say 'No' not 'Yes'

As a child, I was a people pleaser and never said 'no'. It's important to say 'no' – learn to say no without feeling guilty and put yourself first. Protect your energy and yourself, both are essential for good mental and physical health.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is also a good tool to use because it helps you focus on what you can control, helping you to prioritise your time more effectively. Try to avoid forcing situations to fit because it feels easier, or because it seems like it's your only choice. A note to ponder: it is important to remember that when something doesn't align, it's the universe's way asking you to pause, for you to pay attention.

Support

Not everyone around you can or will be supportive towards you. Instead, choose to surround yourself with positive, supportive people, who continue to show you they are. Continue to build on a strong support system if you can.

Conclusion: Learn to Navigate Toxicity

Over the years, we do learn to navigate toxic situations. Our greatest lessons are to work on ourselves – to learn – and to shield ourselves from toxic behaviour. The less toxicity you're exposed to, the better your mental health, the more you avoid illness.