Mental Health Awareness Week, running from 11 to 17 May, is centred on the theme of 'action' to encourage people to support their mental wellbeing. A recent poll of 4,000 UK adults revealed that a quarter had not taken any steps to support their mental health in the previous month. The Mental Health Foundation is urging individuals to adopt small, manageable habits to boost mood and improve overall wellbeing.
Expert Advice on Simple Actions
Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influencing at the Mental Health Foundation, emphasised the importance of prioritising personal mental health through concrete actions. 'Taking small, manageable steps can make a significant difference to how we feel,' she said. 'It's about finding what works for you and building it into your daily routine.'
Eight Simple Mood-Boosting Actions
The foundation recommends the following simple actions to support mental wellbeing:
- Spend time in nature: Even a short walk in a park can reduce stress and improve mood.
- Engage in physical activity: Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
- Take breaks from screens: Reducing screen time, especially before bed, can improve sleep and reduce anxiety.
- Socialise: Connecting with friends and family helps combat loneliness and boosts happiness.
- Improve sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support mental health.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can affect concentration and mood, so drink plenty of water.
- Practise gratitude: Writing down things you are thankful for can shift focus to positive aspects of life.
- Learn new things: Taking up a hobby or learning a skill can provide a sense of achievement and purpose.
These habits are designed to be easy to incorporate into daily life, even for those with busy schedules. The Mental Health Foundation hopes that by focusing on 'action', more people will take proactive steps to care for their mental health. For further information, visit the Mental Health Foundation's website.
