Using Lego to Rebuild My Mental Health One Brick at a Time

 

Using Lego to Rebuild My Mental Health One Brick at a Time was never something i thought would be of any use when it was recommended to me by a friend.

In my struggles with T1DE, I never would imagined that something as simple as Lego bricks could become a crucial part of my recovery. At first glance, they might seem like simple plastic pieces meant for building models and structures, a mere toy. However, they offer much more than that. Engaging with LEGO can be a form of therapy, they have become a powerful tool for helping me to try and start to heal and rebuild my mental health.

The process of building with LEGO bricks requires focus and concentration, which can help divert the mind. It provides a structured yet flexible environment where individuals can express themselves freely and constructively. This process can be cathartic, helping to release pent-up feelings and providing a sense of relief.

My journey with Lego began during a particularly tough period in my life. I was overwhelmed with anxiety and depression, and my eating disorder had taken a toll on every aspect of my life. In a world that often feels chaotic, finding ways to cope with stress and maintain mental health is crucial. For many, creative outlets serve as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression. Whether it’s painting, writing, music, or even building with Lego these activities can provide a much-needed escape and a way to process emotions. 

Building with LEGO bricks serves as a form of brain silence. The repetitive action of snapping bricks together, the tactile sensation of the pieces, and the visual progress of the creation all contribute to a mindful experience. It allows me to be present in the moment, offering a respite from the worries and pressures of daily life.

LEGO bricks can also serve as a medium for emotional expression. For those who find it challenging to articulate their feelings verbally, building with LEGO can be a powerful alternative. You can create models that represent your emotions, experiences, or aspirations, giving form to your internal world. 

When you encounter a creative block yes the pun was intended, you learn to push through it, to find new solutions, and to keep going despite setbacks. These experiences translate into other areas of life. For instance, building with Lego has taught me patience. There are times when the right bricks that go together seems elusive, but through persistence and experimentation, I eventually find what I’m looking for. This is sort of like living with Type one diabeties. You sometimes have to try many things to find a solution to a problem. 

What i have also found is engaging with LEGO can foster social connections. Building together with family, friends, can enhance communication, collaboration, and bonding. Sharing a creative activity provides a common ground for interaction, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. These connections offer support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, which are vital components of mental health.

If you’re interested in trying to build with LEGO, here are a few practical tips to get started:

1. Set Aside Time: Dedicate regular time for building with LEGO, treating it as part of your self-care routine. I tend to try and do an hour or so before i go to bed to try and settle my mind from thinking too much. 
2. Create a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can focus without distractions. My wife and I have a lego desk in our front room that we build on and thats our space to just be. 
3. Start Simple: Begin with small projects and gradually take on more complex builds as you become more comfortable. i started building my first model sat on my sofa one afternoon when i was off work. It helped give my day a sense of purpose. A goal to achieve. 
4. Follow Your Inspiration: Whether you follow instructions or create your own designs, let your inspiration guide you. Personally i follow the instruction booklets that come with the sets cause i like to use Lego as a way not to think and quieten my mind down after a busy day. 

If you’re seeking new ways to enhance your well-being, consider picking up some LEGO bricks. You might find that these colourful pieces can help you build not only structures but also a stronger, healthier mind one piece at a time.