Mental Health and Well-being
Mental
health problems are a very common part of life, one in four people will
experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives and at
any given time one in six people will be experiencing a mental health
problem which may affect their daily life, relationships or physical
health.
Mental health is important to everyone, there are times when everyone feels down, stressed or frighten but most of the time these feelings will pass. However, sometimes these feelings can develop into more serious problems.
Five ways to wellbeing
Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. You can help keep yourself in good mental health by trying to build these five evidence based ways into your daily life.
Connect… With the people around you. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections with support and enrich you every day.
Be Active… Go for a walk or run. Step outside. Cycle. Play a game. Garden. Dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity you enjoy; one that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
Give… Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Look out, as well as in. Seeing yourself, and your happiness, linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and will create connections with the people around you.
Keep Learning… Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that course. Take on a different responsibility at work. Fix a bike. Learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving. Learning new things will make you more confident, as well as being fun to do.
Take Notice… Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are on a train, eating lunch or talking to friends. Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you
Live it Well
The Live it Well website has been designed for residents of Kent and Medway, to help you maintain your wellbeing and link you in to what's available to support you locally. As well as ideas that can help everyone stay well; it also has information for people who use mental health services, carers and mental health professionals. Visit the Live it Well website www.liveitwell.org.ukfor more information.
