Mental health is part of everyday life for all of us. Just like eating well or staying active, looking after your mental health means taking positive steps - and even small actions can make a real difference.
Supporting yourself and others
Taking action could mean doing something to help yourself, or reaching out to support someone you care about. National charity Mental Health UK, one of the organisations leading this year's awareness week, has put together guidance on steps anyone can take.
My Whole Self MOT
There are simple steps you can take to look after your whole self. Use this MOT to check in on your own and others' mental health and wellbeing:
- How's my mental health today? How do I feel today? Mentally and physically.
- My Stress Container - How full is my container? Am I using helpful coping strategies? Are they working?
- My mental health journey - Our mental health is part of the wider journey of our lives.
- Looking after my wellbeing - How did I sleep last night? Am I eating a balanced diet and drinking enough water?
- How's my thinking today - How are my thoughts making me feel? Am I having unhelpful thoughts?
- What can I do? Write down a few things that you can do to improve your wellbeing. Check in next week to see how you are doing.
Free, everyday support
Charity Mind also highlights a range of free and accessible ways to prioritise your mental health day to day. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit - building small habits into your routine can help you stay well over the long term.
Getting help locally
If you or someone you know needs support, your first port of call should be your GP, who can refer you to local mental health services. You can also find information and resources through Mind at mind.org.uk.
