Mental Health
Just like we all have physical health, we all have mental health. We may not think much about this until we have problems or are struggling. Just like with our physical health, paying attention to our mental health, looking after it and getting help early can prevent increased difficulties and complications.
Looking after our mental health and wellbeing can include many things; for example, talking to others or being connected-- this may be with friends, family, groups, through hobbies and interests. Having things to do that are of interest and value, being occupied and being able to contribute. It is also important to have time for ourselves, time for self care, reading, time for things that we like and that makes us smile.
Mental health difficulties vary and affect people in different ways. It can be confusing, worrying and isolating. If you are concerned or notice changes in your mental health such as your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, or if you feel confused or overwhelmed, please seek professional medical help. We would encourage you to contact your GP.
For people in a high level of emotional distress or mental health crisis
Top Tips To Improve Your Mental Wellbeing
What is good mental health?
Looking after your mental health is not something we should just do if we are struggling, or feeling low, anxious or stressed. It's actually something we should think about all the time and really invest in, just like with our physical health.
Staying on top of our mental wellbeing is good for us now but also helps us deal manage difficult times in the future. Over time, it can also reduce our risk of physical health problems.
There are lots of things we can do to look after our mental health and wellbeing every day – make a start with these 7 top tips.
What is good mental health?
1. Reframe unhelpful thoughts
2. Be in the present
3. Get good sleep
4. Connect with others
5. Live a healthy life
6. Do something for yourself
7. Write a letter to future you
Find more things you can do
Understanding Mental Health Problems
This resource explains what mental health problems are, what may cause them, and the many different kinds of help, treatment and support that are available. Also provides guidance on where to find more information, and tips for friends and family.
Self-Care Tools to Look After Your Wellbeing
Expert advice and practical tips to help people look after their mental health and wellbeing
A wide variety of useful links about mental health
Aims to inspire and engage those interested in mental health and wellbeing. Subscribe to the newsletter.
Information to support mental health, including how to look after mental health during the Coronavirus outbreak
Providing a wide range of information and resources to support mental health problems people are facing at this time
Supporting those with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in the UK
Offering an online hub to provide practical support information during Coronavirus outbreak
A leading UK mental health charity to improve the quality of life for anyone affected by mental illness
Changing attitudes to mental health in the workplace, in communities and with children and young people
For people in a high level of emotional distress or mental health crisis
Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team
0800 169 0398 If immediate danger to life call 999 | www.ghc.nhs.uk/our-teams-and-services/crhtt/
- For 11 year olds and up | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- An increased level of care for those with mental health conditions or experiencing emotional and psychological distress
- Minimised face-to-face contact – use of telephone, text and video-based technology
National
Samaritans
116 123 jo@samaritans.org | www.samaritans.org
- 24/7 listening support via email and phone call
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
0800 58 58 58 www.thecalmzone.net
- A leading movement against suicide
- Helpline and webchat – 7 hours a day, 7 days a week
Stay Alive App
www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/find-help-now/stay-alive-app
- An app for those at risk of suicide or those worried about someone else
If a person is already being supported by specialist mental health services, they should contact the relevant team.