We all have mental health, just like physical health. Good mental health is about feeling positive about ourselves and our lives as well as being able to cope with problems when they happen.

•1 in 4 people will experience a mental health difficulty in their lives.

•50% of mental health disorders emerge before the age of 14.

•75% before the age of 25. •

•Research says that we can protect our children’s emotional health and our own by including these 5 ways to wellbeing as part of our daily lives.

1. Connect – being with others

Special time together - days out, days in.

Sharing mealtimes

Taking time to listen as well as talk

Spending time with friends and having fun - sleepovers, playdates etc

Noticing and appreciating each other

Family, friends, clubs, youth groups, neighbours, your community.

These are the cornerstones of  life and will support and enrich every day!

 

2. Keep Learning

Model making

Dance/gymnastics

Star gazing

Camping

Reading for fun

Puzzles

Board or cards games

Cooking

Sewing

Gardening

Learning new things help us feel more confident as well as being fun!

3. Be Active – having regular exercise

Walking or running

Skipping

Netball

Football

Rugby,

Rounders

Dancing 

Swimming

Athletics

If you exercise as pert of a team, club or with friends you can also connect at the same time!

4. Take Notice – having space to observe and be curious

Listening to music

Mindfulness – focusing on the present

Noticing and naming feelings

Eating lunch

Going for a walk.

Catch sight of the beautiful

Keeping a diary or a scrapbook of thoughts and ideas

Nature walks

Leaf rubbing

Reflecting on our feelings can help us appreciate what matters to you.

5. Be Creative – being imaginative

Playing inside or out

Reading or visiting a museum

Acting or story telling

Making things

Writing

Drawing

Crafts

At school we thought that we would combine some research to create 6 ways!

6. Giving

Random acts of kindness

Raising money for charity

Supporting school or community events

Turn the Tide

Beach Cleans

Helping out at home or with older family members or neighbours

Smiles 

Compliments