Mental Health

Maintaining Healthy Mental Health

Everyone has mental health, and it is normal to have ‘down’ or ‘bad’ days, but if this feeling is lasting for a prolonged time you may need to seek support.

It is important at all times, including when there is a change to your daily routine to look after your mental health.

When your mental health isn’t doing so well there is lots of self-help you can engage with:

• Exercising, being in nature and natural light releases dopamine and serotine (the happy hormone) so whether it’s playing a sport outdoors or going for a walk can help boost your mood.
• Eating regular, healthy meals is important for keeping our bodies healthy and maintaining healthy brain functioning, so when you eat better you feel better.
• Regular sleeping pattern, our brains don’t function as well when we are tired, making everyday challenges harder to over come or think of simple solutions.
• Talking – talking therapy is one of the first strategies professionals will recommend so start by talking to a trusted person (friend, family member or someone at school) about the things bothering you, pick someone who has a positive outlook or always looks for a solution.
• Journalling/well-being action plans – writing down your thoughts and feelings to acknowledge what is bothering you and strategies to overcome those issues. It’s also important to note down all the things you’re grateful for and self-care techniques that make you feel better, i.e. having a bath, listening to music, reading and/or sports.

Wellbeing Journal for children | Charlie Waller Trust

Wellbeing Action Plan (young person) | Charlie Waller Trust

• Reading leaflets/booklets, highlighting areas that apply to you and implement strategies suggested.

Microsoft Word - Mental wellbeing (2020) - Word version.docx (mind.org.uk)

Resources and Services

5 Steps to Well-being

Asking For Help

Positive Mental Health Habits

Young Minds

Pause

The Waiting Room

Childline

Action for Happiness

NHS