PEOPLE are being encouraged to connect with nature and access free NHS online resources to improve mental wellbeing.
This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week (May 10-16) is nature and NHS Tameside and Glossop Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Tameside Council are backing the campaign urging residents to connect with nature in new ways, highlighting the positive impact that this connection can have on their mental health.
Since the start of the pandemic many have been affected mentally by the impact of Covid-19 and there has been an increase in a range of mental health conditions for adults, from low wellbeing, sleep problems and anxiety to depression. Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world.
Every Mind Matters can get people started with a free NHS online plan, showing simple steps to help manage anxiety, sleep better and boost mood. There is also a wealth of content which includes practical tips and videos from experts on dealing with stress and anxiety, boosting your mood, sleeping better and what you can do to help others – including advice for parents and for children and young people.
Their platform is continuously updated to support people during the Covid-19 outbreak, and has a Covid-19 hub that includes tips and support on how to deal with change, cope with money worries and job uncertainty and how to look after your mental wellbeing while staying at home. Visit https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
Dr Asad Ali, co-chair at NHS Tameside and Glossop Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It’s important to take care of yourself and get the most from life. Making simple changes to how you live doesn’t need to cost a fortune or take up loads of time.
“Having good mental health helps us relax more, achieve more and enjoy our lives more.”
For pregnancy and early years, children and young people, and adults mental health support and advice including urgent help visit: https://www.tamesideandglossopccg.org/mentalhealthsupport
For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or join the conversation on social media using #ConnectWithNature and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek