Running from 10-16 May, Mental Health Awareness week 2021 aims to spread understanding of the issues that can affect our well-being, as well as make sufferers aware that there is help and support available.
One of the many people who support and help our local community overcome such issues is trained counsellor, Shena Letford from Bridgwalk Counselling.
Based at the Soul to Sole Holistic Therapy Centre on the Kingstanding Road in Birmingham, Shena was more than happy to send us across some great tips to help improve mental health and well-being, so we can try and remain positive and get the most out of life.
Tips To Improve Mental Health
1. Connect with other people
Good relationships are important for your mental health and wellbeing. This helps you build a sense of belonging and self-worth and share positive experiences, supporting you with your emotions.
2. Be physically active
It’s great for your physical health and fitness! There is plenty of evidence that physical exercise is good for the whole body, mind and spirit.
3. Learn new skills
Research shows that learning new skills, techniques and interventions helps us greatly. This can boost self-confidence and raise self-esteem, helping you build a sense of purpose and connecting with others.
4. Give to others
Research suggests that acts of giving and kindness can help improve your overall mental well-being by creating positive feelings and a sense of reward, giving more of a sense of self-worth.
You can create a place of gratitude for yourself by helping others, by actively listening, supporting and attending to your friends, giving some of your time to your family, or just visiting someone who is isolated – like an elderly neighbour. Even assisting or doing some handy work for someone needing help can improve your own well-being.
5. Mindfulness
The ‘here and now’ can help your thoughts and feelings, body and how you view the world around you. Consequently, this can help you enjoy life more. This is called an ‘awareness’, bringing about a positive change in the way we view life and how we engage in challenges.
To find out more about how Bridgwalk Counselling can help, check out the official website for a list of its local counselling services.
Local Mental Health Support Groups
Alternatively, reach out to one of your local support groups.