World Mental Health Day 2020

Today is World Mental health Day 2020. At St. Vincent’s we are working with Mind and on this page you will find some of the wonderful ideas they have to support mental health and wellbeing such as the relaxation tips above. Please click here for their latest newsletter, which includes a wealth of valuable information and guidance.

What is mental wellbeing?

Mental wellbeing doesn’t have one set meaning. We might use it to talk about how we feel, how well we’re coping with daily life or what feels possible at the moment. Good mental wellbeing does not mean you are always happy or unaffected by your experiences. But poor mental wellbeing can make it more difficult to cope with daily life.

Tips for improving your mental wellbeing

There are lots of things we can try to take care of our wellbeing. But it is not always easy to start. You might find it helpful to:

• only try what feels comfortable
• give yourself time to figure out what works for you, going at your own pace
• take small steps. Pick one or two things that feel achievable at first, before moving on to try other ideas.

If you’re finding things difficult and these tips don’t feel possible, it’s ok to ask for help. You can do this be talking to a trusted adult, such as your parents or carers. At school you can talk toy your teacher or write in the class worry box. Don’t forget that we have an online Worry Box Blog too.

• Relax and reduce stress
• Find ways to learn and be creative
• Spend time in nature
• Connect with others
• Look after your physical health
• Try to get enough sleep

At school we have daily wellbeing activities and every class has a Happy Box. We also have Molly, who is there for you to play with and stroke if you are feeling sad or having a difficult time.

More information can be found on the new Wellbeing section of our website which also has a dedicated Mental Health page which we will update regularly.

Life is far from perfect, but there are lots of reasons for optimism.  Setting positive goals for the future gives our lives a sense of direction and purpose. And although we face many challenges there are also lots of reasons to stay hopeful. By consciously choosing our priorities we can overcome issues, make progress and focus on what really matters. The  Optimistic October Calendar by Action for Happiness might give you some ideas.

Whether it’s going for a walk, learning a new skill or doing something creative, taking the first steps to getting support for yourself, or reaching out to someone else; take the opportunity to do one thing this World Mental Health Day. This Mind Calendar has some more ideas.

Please comment below and let us know how you supported your mental health.