Meerkats are BAD for your mental health

I absolutely LOVE watching the meerkats at Bristol Zoo.

They’re just too cute, especially when they stretch up on their hind legs to keep an eye out for any potential threats.

But during my last visit, something hit me—I'm a lot like a meerkat.

I’m always anxious, always hypervigilant, constantly waiting for something bad to happen.

- Would everyone HATE the latest product I was working on?

- Oh no, I said the wrong thing when I met up with a friend earlier, they might never speak to me again!

- Did I remember to lock the door? I did, didn't I? But did I leave the oven on, oh lord, what if the house burns down while I pop to Tesco? 

Over time, I realised that living in a constant state of alert, much like a meerkat, was not only exhausting but also detrimental to my mental health.

Living Like a Prey Animal

Being in a perpetual "fight or flight" mode is no fun.

Just as meerkats are hardwired to react to any hint of danger, I found myself overreacting to minor stressors, always expecting the worst.

This hypervigilance made it difficult to relax and enjoy life.

I was always on edge, my body tense, my mind racing with "what ifs" and worst-case scenarios.

The Downside of Constant Alertness

Constant alertness might keep meerkats safe, but for humans, it’s a different story.

Our modern stressors aren’t tigers we need to run away from but more like email alerts and upcoming meetings.

Yet, our bodies still pump us full of adrenaline as if we need to run from a tiger.

Without an outlet, this adrenaline stays in our bodies, leading to chronic stress, fatigue, and BIG overwhelm.

My relationships suffered because I was often irritable and distracted.

My productivity at work declined as I struggled to focus.

Worst of all, my physical health took a hit—headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues became frequent companions.

Managing Anxiety and Hypervigilance

Realising I was living like a meerkat was the first step toward change.

Here are some strategies that helped me manage my anxiety and reduce hypervigilance:

1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation helped me stay grounded in the present moment, rather than constantly worrying about the future. Simple breathing exercises and guided meditations became daily rituals that calmed my mind.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise became a powerful outlet for stress. Whether it was a morning boxing session, yoga, or just a walk in the park, moving my body helped release built-up tension and improved my mood.

3. Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no and set boundaries with work and social commitments gave me more control over my time and reduced feelings of overwhelm.

4. Talking to Friends and Family: Opening up to friends and family about my anxiety was incredibly beneficial. Their understanding and encouragement made a huge difference, and they often offered valuable perspectives and advice. Sometimes, just having someone to listen made all the difference.

Knowing When to Seek Help

Despite my best efforts, there were times when my anxiety felt unmanageable. Seeking professional help was crucial.

If you find yourself unable to cope, experiencing panic attacks, or your anxiety is interfering with your daily life, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.

There’s no shame in asking for help—in fact, it can be a turning point toward healing.

The Benefits of Change

Making these changes transformed my life. I no longer feel like a meerkat, constantly on edge.

I can enjoy moments of peace and relaxation without the looming shadow of anxiety.

My relationships have improved, my productivity has increased, and my overall well-being is better than ever.

Realizing that living in a state of constant alert was unsustainable and unhealthy was the catalyst for positive change in my life.

If you find yourself feeling like a meerkat, always on the lookout for danger, remember that it's possible to break free from this cycle.

With the right strategies and support, you can cultivate a calmer, more balanced state of mind.