Mental Health Awareness Week

Enjoy nature

This week, commencing 10th May is Mental Health Awareness Week, themed around nature, and we are supporting the Mental Health Foundation by sharing ideas that could help with your mental health.

It is widely reported that more people have experienced mental health challenges throughout the past year, largely as a result of Covid-19. Increased feelings of loneliness, anxiety and fears for the future have all been fuelled by the pandemic. As we follow the Government’s plan to move out of such unusual and restrictive lifestyles, we look at some practical ways to help mental health.

Nature

This year, Mental Health Awareness Week is themed around nature following research that supports the role that nature plays in protecting and supporting our mental health. 45% of us reported that being in green space has been vital for our mental health. The warmer weather is on its way and restrictions surrounding Covid-19 are gradually being lifted; it’s a great time to get outside and make time to enjoy the natural world. Find out more here 

Earlier in the year, we offered a few tips to help with healthy living that included details on smoking cessation, weight loss, food, sleep and exercise. Whilst these tips are focused on physical changes, the actions will also help your mental wellbeing. Read more on healthy living.

Healthy body, healthy mind

Regular exercise keeps the brain healthy as well as the body. Experts believe that movement releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good and can boost self-esteem. 

Why not start a routine for 10 minutes every morning, for example? It could be a walk around the block, a bit of yoga at home or some stretches. The timing can always be increased as you get more comfortable with the activity and you can monitor how you feel. Look after your mental health with exercise. 

Regular exercise can also increase your ability to concentrate and allow you to get a better night’s sleep. Sleep is crucial for good mental health. In March we looked at how you can sleep your way to better health that included the impact of mobile phones/devices before bed. 

Help and support

If you are experiencing mental health difficulties, talking about how you feel is one of the first steps in regaining control of your wellbeing. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a big announcement and you may find a casual chat with a friend or family member could help. Alternatively, you may prefer to contact your GP. There are several other areas of help and support  

If you are in distress and need immediate help and are unable to see a GP, you should visit your local A&E. 

Details on other support services and organisations can be found here.