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Build strong connections to support your wellbeing

The focus for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week 12 to 18 May, is 'Community'.

Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and wellbeing. We thrive when we have strong connections with other people. The supportive communities we build remind us we are not alone.

Community means different things to different people. It can be the connections we have with our family, our friends, neighbours or colleagues, and being around these people can help boost our mood. Spending time with our communities supports our wellbeing and can reduce the chances of feeling lonely, low or depressed. Taking the time to connect with nature and animals as well as connecting in a spiritual or faithful sense is also a benefit to our mental wellbeing.

In Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ, there are a whole array of ways you can connect with your community. Here are a few ideas:

• Try a social activity, in person or online via  , or join a club.
• Run an errand for a neighbour or friend .
• Local libraries run a variety of events, with author talks and activities.
• Find out about the many ways to connect by  volunteering or micro volunteering (if you only have an hour or two).
• If you’re interested in the outdoors, there are seasonal events happening across the Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ countryside.
• Churches, place of worship and mosques often run social activities or groups. You can search under 'faith based' services on .
• Find a whole host of activities events in our Culture and Leisure section of our website.

It can be a bit daunting joining a new group or activity, but remember that everyone is likely feeling the same way. Taking that step to reach out and participate can lead to meaningful connections and a positive impact on your mental health.