Ruby Wax opens up about the key to good mental health
She said it might sound corny, but...
Last updated 14th Jun 2023
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and comedian and author Ruby Wax joined Ken Bruce to talk about her new book called I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was.
The book was supposed to be a travelogue of experiences that allowed Ruby to explore the meaning of life. However, it ended up with her checking herself into a mental institution after her depression returned.
Now, with the release of her new book, the comedian opened up about depression, therapy and what she believes is the key to good mental health on Greatest Hits Radio.
Revealing the idea of her book came during lockdown, Ruby told Ken: "It wasn’t just me (during the pandemic) a lot of people suddenly came to the conclusion that money, beauty, power, success doesn’t give you happiness, so people were saying what else?
"I decided I’d go on all these journeys that might inspire me and that was the book that I pitched to the publisher. I moved into a Christian monastery to find out what faith is, I went to a 30-day retreat to find what happens to your mind - do you get peaceful or do you go crazy? I’m aways looking, I’m curious, but the idea was find these journeys and see if they change your life."
However, after going on these experiences it didn't end how she thought it would. "It did change my life," she admitted: "I ended up in a mental institution. It could have been from the journeys, but depression comes even after you win an Oscar. But it was very serious.
"For the book I had a deadline so (these experiences) 30-day retreats, swimming with whales, getting people out of Afghanistan they were a little close together... and it certainly burnt me out. If you do an experience like that your brain does change, but then you need time (to process), and I didn’t. I just had the next one and the next one, so I think I overdosed a little bit."
The comedian then told Ken what she felt the key to good mental health was, explaining: "I know this sounds corny, but be generous and be nice to people. We work as a community, but we’ve lost that, so if you can even pick up a piece of paper and say ‘you dropped this’ it’s a tiny thing, but it releases a hormone in you that is so good for your health."
Sounds like a great way to help your mental health Ruby! ❤️
Ruby's book I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was is now available to buy.
When is Ken Bruce on Greatest Hits Radio?
Ken is on Greatest Hits Radio Monday to Friday, from 10am. Don't forget to tune in to listen to him through this website, or download the free app.
Small acts of kindness that can make a big difference:
Say "Hello"
Whether it's to family or your partner as you get home or to people you're speaking to at work (or even online working). Don't just go from task to task. Take the time to greet people.
Say "Please" and "Thank you"
It might sound obvious but when we're busy it's an easy one to forget. We all know how annoying it is when somebody doesn't do this to us, yet it's one of the things we might let slip so easily.
Take the time to listen
We've all done it, we have something to say back and we just can't wait to jump in and have our turn, so much so we end up tuning out of what's just been said. Take the time to listen that bit harder to people who are talking to you.
Turn off lights, water and plugs
This will save resources not just for the planet but for your pocket too!
Take the time to recycle
You can do the bit to help save money and save the planet by taking the time to wash out that jar or plastic container that you've used and send it to somewhere better than the rubbish tip.
Aim to message at least one of your friends every day and ask them how they are.
If you've not spoken to someone for a while, ask if you can give them a call or arrange to see them. Think about all that's happened in your life lately and try and catch up with a friend to find out about their life too.
Take time to reconnect with the older generation
Even if you don't live nearby your older relatives try giving them a video call, phone call, or letter. Of course we're sure they'd love a visit too.
Donate unwanted items or to charity
Cash for Kids supports children and young people affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, life-limiting illness and those who have additional needs. Visit the Cash for Kids website.
If you have items that you know are too good to throw away but that you'll never use, then consider donating them as your old stuff can become someone's new stuff!
We all have a Mental Health
Help us make a difference and commit to doing something kind by adding a pledge to our interactive map. Being kind has other benefits too – not only does it make others feel better, it gives our brains feel good endorphins (sometimes called 'helpers high') so there's no excuse not to #pledgekindness! Pledge your act of kindness here.
Give a gift with no expectation of something in return.
Whether it's your BFF, family, partner or just a friend you want to make feel special, spend some pennies or hand-make a gift for someone you love. Who says presents have to be just for special occasions?
Now read:
Mental health matters: Here’s how you can get advice and support
Ben Elton reminisces about the kindness of George Michael with moving story
Noel Gallagher on how the pandemic impacted his new album 'Council Skies' |newtab)