This year the theme is Nature!
During lockdown, nature has played an important role in supporting mental health and general wellbeing; in a period where we’ve faced isolation and confinement, people have found solace in the outdoors - connecting with plants and animals which have nurtured our mental health in a time of crisis.
Here is a summary of tips, benefits & things to do outdoors:
Activities you can do outdoors:
How nature benefits your health:
Mental Health Awareness week is all about starting conversations about mental health, this means talking about it; with our friends, family, colleagues, or mental health professionals.
Internally Emico have Wellbeing Champions who have had Mental First Aider Training. They are always available for a discussion, and more will be added to the list soon. Emico also have the Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured who can provide anonymous support.
Please also find below a link to the Samaritans website which has useful guides and listening exercises to help you to identify these signs:
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/schools/deal/deal-resources/connecting-others/listening-skills/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2ITznq-18AIVzdPtCh1a5ALrEAAYASAAEgIgi_D_BwE
Here are some helpful external numbers you can call:
Mind: 0300 123 3393 to call, or text 86463
CALM (If you identify as male): 0800 58 58 58
NHS direct: 111 (24hours)
Anxiety UK: 0344 477 5774
Get Talking:
Below are 15 questions you can ask someone you might be concerned for to start a conversation around mental health:
1. Do you lovingly battle any mental wellness or health struggles?
2. What things affect your mental wellness?
3. How does your mental health struggle manifest for you physically?
4. Are there any signs you’re struggling that I should notice or be aware of?
5. Is there anything you need from me to feel supported with your mental health?
6. You’ve seemed withdrawn lately, is everything okay?
7. Can I support you in seeking treatment if that’s something you’re open to or want to do?
8. What might progress with your mental health look like?
9. Are there physical things you can do to support your mental health? Do you know what they are?
10. How are you doing? Really?
11. How is X treatment going?
12. Are there any topics of conversation we should avoid?
13. Are there any behaviours I can change or be mindful of to avoid causing further harm?
14. What is it like to live with your health condition?
15. You know I’m here for you, right?
If you’d like to get a dialogue going around mental health in a more light-hearted way, below is a link to a ‘time to talk about mental health’ pub quiz - why not try it out this weekend with friends and family:
https://www.time-to-change.org.uk/sites/default/files/Time-to-Talk-Day-Pub-Quiz.pdf
We know it's been a bit rainy, but do try to get yourselves outdoors and enjoy the benefits of nature!
