Mental Health Awareness Week, hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, is a UK-wide campaign aimed at uniting people to focus on achieving good mental health. This year, the event runs from May 12th to 18th, with the theme “Community,” highlighting the significance of communities and their impact on mental well-being. Find out more from Mental Health Foundation about communities here: Why is community important for our mental health and wellbeing? | Mental Health Foundation
Here at Kingdom Academy, we take Mental Health seriously, we have a Mental Health First Aider, Sarah Oates, who is also our Designated Safeguarding Lead and is available to take to learners or staff who might be needing support with their mental health. We also work with Able Futures who can provide a no cost program of 121 support with mental health professionals for up to 9 months. Find out more about Able Futures here: Support for mental health at work | Able Futures Mental Health Support Service . Our website is a valuable resource, offering information, advice, and tools to support both physical and mental well-being. Visit our Wellbeing & Safeguarding page for more details: Wellbeing & Safeguarding – Kingdom Academy . We also host a variety of Lunch and Learn sessions throughout the year that focus on a various of topics around mental health such as Eat the Frog – Out stress busting guide, Suicide awareness, and Break the Cycle of Negative Thinking – Visit the Lunch and Learn page on website for our latest schedule and how to book on these sessions Lunch And Learn Sessions – Kingdom Academy Lunch And Learn Sessions – Kingdom Academy
Top 5 Tips for Maintaining Good Mental Health
Practicing these strategies regularly can help reduce or even prevent issues such as anxiety and depression:
- Mindfulness: Be fully present and engaged in whatever activity you are doing. This practice helps you stay grounded and focused. Learn more about mindfulness.
- Gratitude: Regularly expressing gratitude can foster a positive mindset. You can do this by writing in a journal, thanking people directly, or leaving positive reviews for services. Explore strategies to enhance gratefulness.
- Spending Time Outdoors: Being in nature has been scientifically proven to improve mental health. Make it a habit to spend time outside regularly. Watch videos on the benefits of nature.
- Exercise: Physical activity, whether it’s yoga, running, or any other form, releases brain chemicals that boost mental health. Be active for your mental health.
- Community and Connection: Engage with your various communities, such as friends, family, or colleagues. Connecting with others, through technology or in person, can significantly enhance your well-being. Understand the importance of community for mental health.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can create a strong foundation for good mental health. If you are struggling with your mental health please reach out to our Safeguarding Team safeguarding@kingdom-academy.co.uk or our Able Futures: Support for mental health at work | Able Futures Mental Health Support Service or your GP.